Former Vancouver Canucks fan favourite Nikita Tryamkin announces life changing news

Nikita Tryamkin's time with the Vancouver Canucks was brief, but it left a lasting visual and emotional imprint on the fan base. Drafted 66th overall in 2014, the towering defenseman arrived from Russia with intrigue and immediate attention.

Tryamkin played the entire 2016 season with Vancouver, skating in 66 games and producing two goals and seven assists for nine points. At 22 years old and standing 6 foot 7, he brought reach, edge, and a different defensive look.

That Canucks roster struggled overall, finishing with 69 points, yet Tryamkin's pairing minutes and penalty kill usage showed promise. His entry level deal carried a modest cap hit, and his physical style quickly became a talking point.

On Thursday, the former Canucks defenseman shared a personal update that instantly traveled through hockey social feeds. The photo showed Tryamkin with his two kids and his wife, who is pregnant, confirming another child is on the way.

For many fans, seeing Tryamkin smiling off the ice sparks a familiar mix of what was and what might have been.

After the 2016 season, contract complications and role expectations pushed Tryamkin back to the KHL, where he reestablished himself. Vancouver retained his rights for a time, but a return never materialized.

His Canucks stint still stands as his only NHL experience, making moments like this holiday post feel oddly connected to Vancouver. Fans remember the raw tools, the reach in the neutral zone, and the nightly curiosity.

Now 31, Tryamkin appears settled and happy, embracing family life far from Rogers Arena. The Christmas timing made the announcement feel warmer, especially for supporters who still remember his name.

Hockey careers move fast, but personal milestones move fans in different ways. For Vancouver, this was a gentle reminder that some chapters matter even after the skates are hung up.