Vancouver Canucks forward Ryan Kesler (17) during the first period against the Washington Capitals at Rogers Arena. The Vancouver Canucks won 3-2.

Photo credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-Imagn Images

Former NHL star and Vancouver Canucks fan favorite Ryan Kesler has shockingly been charged with some serious criminal charges in Michigan, some that could affect his professional and personal career for years to come.

The ex-centre, well known for his gritty/aggressive play and winning the 2011 Selke Trophy for the NHL’s top defensive forward has found himself in some serious hot water.

Ex-Vancouver Canucks Centre Ryan Kesler Charged with Criminal Conduct in Michigan

Ryan Kesler, who spent 10 seasons with the Vancouver Canucks, and another five with the Anaheim Ducks has been charged with two counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct in Michigan over the weekend.

Court records show Kesler, 41, was arraigned via Zoom on Monday in Bloomfield Hills District Court and pleaded not guilty to both misdemeanor charges.

The offences are alleged to have occurred on Jan. 1 in Orchard Lake, Michigan

Kessler’s Lawyer had this to say about the allegations against his client:

«Ryan emphatically denies the allegations and is completely innocent of the charges. The charges are baseless, and he is prepared to fight them vigorously in court,» Morad said. «As the legal process begins, we ask for respect for his privacy and for the integrity of the judicial system. We are confident, when all the facts and circumstances are presented, that he will be fully exonerated.»

In 1001 games in the National Hockey League, he tallied 258 goals and 315 assists for 573 points.

On top of his NHL career, the 41-year-old Michigan native also represented his country on many occasions.

Playing for Team USA at the 2010 and 2014 Winter Olympics, he most notably helped his team and fellow countrymen secure the silver medal in Vancouver.

In addition to his NHL career, he also represented USA Hockey on multiple occasions. He played for the United States at the 2010 and 2014 Winter Olympics, helping the team grab the silver medal in Vancouver in 2010

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Former Vancouver Canucks Centre Ryan Kesler Charged with Serious Criminal Conduct in Michigan

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