Meeting on the Ice: Adam Fox and Ryan Lindgren Face Off

SEATTLE — This Saturday night marks only the third occasion that Adam Fox and Ryan Lindgren will compete against each other. It’s been a while since the pair, who became friends as teenagers in the U.S. National Team Development Program, faced off; the last time was during their college years in the 2017-18 season.

Back then, Lindgren’s university team and the University of Minnesota secured two victories over Fox’s Harvard University in November, winning 4-2 in the first game and then clinching a 2-1 overtime win in the second.

This matchup will be a first for both as NHL players, especially since the Rangers traded Lindgren to Colorado back in March after the two played parts of six seasons together in New York.

Fox shared his thoughts with the media, saying, “It’s going to be interesting. I mean, I played with him at NTDP and once in college. That was fun. Just a little friendly banter, you know? It’s been a while since I faced him. He’s a great player. Can’t wait to hang out again. But on the ice? No friendships, right?”

Lindgren hosted a gathering for some former teammates at his home in Seattle last night, as he gears up for the matchup. Additionally, the Rangers will also be facing Kaapo Kakko, who was traded to Seattle in December. This will be his debut against his old team after missing time due to a hand injury sustained during preseason.

This season feels like a reunion tour for some former players, and it’s just getting started. But for Fox, facing Lindgren will surely be a different experience.

“It was awesome being friends with him,” Fox reflected. “In hockey, players move around so much. It’s rare we got to cross paths this many times. He was a groomsman at my wedding, very close with my family, lived with him for years. It’s special to build a friendship like that.”

“Especially considering the business side of hockey. It’s great to have had someone like him alongside,” Fox added.

Since Lindgren’s trade to the Avalanche, alongside Jimmy Vesey and Hank Kemp, their connection has remained strong. They shared a home during their time in New York and lived next door to each other in Lindgren’s rookie season.

The two have continued their tradition of summer golf trips together, reminding them that some things never change, even with their careers taking different paths.

Fox mentioned that the transition would feel seamless during their reunion. He also discussed his current defense partner, Vladislav Gavrikov, highlighting their promising early performances together. “We’ve defended well,” Fox noted. “Defense is vital, especially at home against top lines. I’d like to contribute more offensively, but I don’t want to compromise defense. Developing chemistry takes time, but I think we’re getting there.”