For a hockey player at any level, the only thing that is more pleasing than being called a great player is being called a great teammate, by one of your own teammates. Canucks Fanz columnist Farhan Devji recently caught up with Brian Boyle, who had nothing but great things to say about his former teammate from Boston College, Ryan Shannon.

By Canucks Fanz Columnist: Farhan Devji

As Shannon continues to vie for his spot on the Vancouver Canucks, he has made it quite evident that he possesses the raw skill and hockey smarts to succeed at the next level, but will he be able to overcome his size deficit? As Brian Boyle explains, Ryan’s game has far too many intangibles for his size to play a deciding role.

“Ryan is as committed as anyone I have played with, and he is very smart, which is why I have no doubts that he can adapt his game and learn to play effectively anywhere,” said Boyle. “He is greatly talented with great speed and playmaking ability. He excelled in his rookie season in Portland (AHL) and I really think he is going to be an impact player in the NHL, especially the new NHL.”

Boyle and Shannon played together at Boston College for two seasons, where they both were heavily relied upon to provide a good chunk of the team’s offense. While Boyle has yet to play a regular season game in the National Hockey League, he is still convinced that Shannon has too much potential to not succeed at the next level.

“I don’t have the experience at that level, but just knowing how committed and talented he is, in my opinion, I think he could really become and very good NHLer,” said LA’s first round draft pick in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. “Speed is dangerous in the new NHL and I can’t see how that wouldn’t work to his advantage.”

Canucks fans are starting to see what kind of player Shannon really is, but as Boyle explains; his performance on the ice is only half the story.

“In the dressing room, Ryan picked and chose where and when he needed to be heard vocally,” said Boyle. “He was so consistent with his play in college that he never had to say much because he "brought it" every night. He was a unanimous decision as captain voted by the players and didn’t disappoint.”

One of the worst feelings a hockey player could possibly have is to be singled out by one of your fellow teammates in front of the whole group, especially if it is by your captain. Boyle went on to say that Shannon had a much more subtle and effective way of going about his business.

”If he had something to say to someone, he would take them aside privately to not embarrass them, and he would build them up in an attempt to try and bring confidence to that player,” said Boyle. “I was able to witness that first hand. He did so much for me in the 2 years I got to play with him, and I hope he knows how much it helped me and how much I appreciated it.”

Brian Boyle has come along way in his career and he says that that is in large part due to Ryan Shannon’s exemplary leadership qualities.

“He wasn’t a quiet leader, and he wasn’t an overly vocal leader, I just know he was a great leader,” said Boyle. “One who has helped me know what type of teammate I should strive to be. He really helped my development and we all really hope for the best for Ryan.”

If Brian Boyle’s comments are any indication, the Canucks have found themselves a gem here in Vancouver.

“He was one of the best leaders and players that I have had the privilege of playing with.”

Think Ryan Shannon is ready to be an impact NHL player? Discuss it here.

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