Ryker Lee: Confidence, Growth, and a Path to the Draft with the Madison Capitals

Ryker Lee has been on scouts’ radars for a long time. The Madison Capitols forward is currently fifth in USHL scoring with 1.20 points per game, steadily gaining ground in his draft year.

"The draft is something you think about, but it’s a long road after that," Lee said. "This season, I want to win a Clark Cup championship with my team. That’s the biggest goal."

Lee started strong at the USHL Fall Classic, showcasing a nearly pro-level wrist shot. He scored his first of 21 goals there and later earned MVP honours at the All-American Game, a turning point in his confidence.

"At the start of the season, I didn’t know what to expect," Lee admitted. "But I’ve built confidence, and it’s been good so far."

Some analysts have questioned Lee’s skating, but he has worked hard to improve.

"I work with a skating coach. I know when I’m tired, my form breaks down, and that’s something I need to fix," he said. "But I don’t think my skating is as bad as people say."

The conversation turned to whether skating mechanics are overanalyzed in scouting. Lee believes efficiency is key.

"You want to win races and get to spots. If I can be more efficient, I’ll get even faster."

At 15, some doubted Lee’s size, but that concern has faded.

"I was probably 5’3” at 15, but I’ve grown two inches a year. I’m six feet now and still growing," he said.

Lee loves playing in Madison, a place he’s been familiar with since attending summer camps there.

"I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else."

He also got advice from teammates who went through the draft process, including Will Zellers (Avalanche), Aidan Park, and Austin Moline (Philadelphia Flyers).

"They told me to enjoy it as much as possible."

Lee has played both centre and wing, but this season, he’s settled on the right side.

"I like making plays on the wall and competing on the rush. I can play either side, but I’m more comfortable on the right."

His approach to the offensive zone is simple and effective.

"I try to keep it simple, follow the coaches' plan, stop in key spots, and make plays off the wall."

Defensively, he keeps things straightforward as well.

"I focus on making a good play to get the puck out and create offence."

Committed to Michigan State, Lee won’t be changing his plans.

"My brother goes there, so it was hard to turn down."

Currently projected as a second-round pick, Lee has time to improve his stock as the season progresses.