2017-18 FUEL PERFORMANCE REVIEW: RYAN RUPERT
#22 | FORWARD | GRAND BEND, ONT.
2017-18 STATS: 65 GP, 17 G, 32 A, 49 PTS, 120 PIM, 7 PPG, 4 SHG, 4 GWG
Joining his twin brother Matt in Indianapolis over the offseason, forward Ryan Rupert skated to a career year with the Fuel in 2017-18. The fourth-year professional set personal bests in points, goals, assists and games played, while adding an additional goal and two assists in four Kelly Cup Playoff outings.
Rupert proved to be a key performer in all situations for the Fuel, earning him the team's Most Valuable Player award at the end of the season. The native of Grand Bend, Ontario tied for the team lead with seven power play goals, finished in a second place tie with four game-winning goals (including a pair of overtime winners in Cincinnati), and set a new franchise single-season record with four shorthanded goals.
Finishing the season fourth in team point scoring, Rupert tallied multiple points on 12 different occasions in 2017-18. The forward caught fire following the ECHL All-Star break, putting up eight goals and 11 assists over a 17 game span from Jan. 20 to Feb. 24.
In addition to his offensive numbers, Rupert brought a heavy, physical edge to the Fuel lineup. Not afraid to mix things up, his 120 penalty minutes ranked third on the Indy roster behind Garrett Clarke and Reed Seckel.
"Just like his brother, he likes to have some fun out there and get under peoples' skin. They play the game the right way and they are so smart together - not only at 5-on-5 or on the power play but also on the PK. It was real good to have Ryan here and to be able to have the two brothers together." - Head Coach Bernie John
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