Gulls Captain Ryan Carpenter Leads with Experience and Dedication

The 35-year-old veteran center is the perfect fit to guide the San Diego Gulls to the playoffs

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The San Diego Gulls have found the ideal captain in Ryan Carpenter, a 35-year-old center with extensive NHL and AHL experience. Carpenter's leadership skills, two-way game, and reliability make him the perfect choice to lead the Gulls as they aim to return to the playoffs for the first time since the 2021-22 season.

Why it matters

Carpenter's veteran presence and respected voice in the locker room are crucial for a Gulls team looking to build on last season and take the next step. His ability to set an example on the ice with his strong two-way play and commitment to the team sets the tone for the entire roster.

The details

Carpenter has played in 392 NHL games and 381 AHL games, giving him a wealth of experience that he uses to guide the Gulls. He is a solid two-way center who excels on faceoffs and in his own end, while also contributing offensively. Carpenter has played in every one of the Gulls' 46 games so far this season, demonstrating his reliability and dedication.

  • Carpenter was named Gulls captain entering the 2022-23 season.
  • The Gulls have gotten off to a 22-15-6 start, putting them in sixth place in the AHL's Pacific Division.

The players

Ryan Carpenter

The 35-year-old center is in his first season as captain of the San Diego Gulls after playing in 392 NHL games and 381 AHL games over his career.

Sasha Pastujov

A skilled winger who is one of the key returning players for the Gulls this season.

Justin Bailey

Another winger who is back with the Gulls and expected to be an impact player.

Yegor Sidorov

A forward who has returned to the Gulls roster this season.

Tim Washe

A center who is back with the Gulls and will play a key role this season.

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What they’re saying

“I have high expectations for this group. A lot of good players have come back and the young guys have plenty of potential. Also, I feel we're have depth at all positions. For sure, I'd be very disappointed if we didn't make the playoffs.”

— Ryan Carpenter, Gulls Captain (valleycenter.com)

What’s next

The Gulls will look to continue their recent strong play and solidify their position in the playoff race as the season progresses.

The takeaway

Carpenter's veteran leadership, two-way game, and commitment to the Gulls make him the ideal captain to guide this team back to the playoffs. His example on and off the ice sets the tone for the entire roster as they aim to build on last season's disappointment.