There’s no denying that Ryan Lomberg is no ordinary hockey player.
From his fun pre-game looks to his high-energy style of play, he stands out in every way.
He’s the kind of guy who will throw punches for his team, light up the locker room with jokes, and even help out at a teammate’s wedding when he wasn’t even invited.
This is exactly why Lomberg is more than a fourth-line forward.
He’s the heartbeat of his team and makes hockey more exciting and fun for everyone.
- Why Ryan Lomberg is a fan-favorite and team leader for the Calgary Flames.
- The fun story of how he made a teammate’s small wedding unforgettable.
- How his hard work, big energy, and smart play make him one of the NHL’s most unique players.
The Wedding Crasher You’d Actually Invite
If you’re wondering what kind of guy Ryan Lomberg is, this story will tell you everything.
During the pandemic, Justin Kirkland, one of Lomberg’s old teammates, planned a small wedding with his fiancée and their dog in a rose garden.
No big party, no guests—just the basics.
When Lomberg heard about it over drinks, he asked if he could come.
Kirkland didn’t think he’d actually show up.
But to his surprise, Lomberg arrived with flowers the following day, wearing a casual golf shirt and jeans.
Sure, he didn’t have to, but he went out of his way to help out.
He held phones so the bride and groom’s families could watch the ceremony over video calls.
“I think I invited myself,” Lomberg joked later.
But by the end of the day, the bride said, “He’s the absolute best.”
That’s Lomberg for you—a guy who shows up and makes everything better.
Back in Calgary: The Flames and Lomberg Reunited
After a few years playing for the Florida Panthers (and winning a Stanley Cup with them!), Lomberg is back with the Calgary Flames.
And it’s a perfect fit.
Lomberg played five years with the Flames’ AHL team, the Stockton Heat, so he already knows the organization well.
The Flames’ coaches, who had worked with him before, knew what he could bring to the team: energy, grit, and heart.
Since coming back, he’s been a steady force on the fourth line.
He might not play many minutes, but everyone notices when he’s on the ice.
He throws big hits, gets into scrappy fights when needed, and keeps the team’s energy high—even on the bench.
Throwing Hands and Respecting Opponents
Lomberg is known for being tough, and he’s not afraid to drop the gloves if it means protecting his teammates.
One big moment came recently when he fought Nathan Bastian from the New Jersey Devils.
After a clean hit on Paul Cotter, Bastian stepped up to challenge Lomberg.
Even though Bastian is bigger (6’4” and 205 pounds), Lomberg took him on and landed some serious punches—using his non-dominant left hand, no less!
But here’s what makes Lomberg different: he no longer fights for the sake of it.
“In the past, I would have fought just to fight,” he said.
“But you learn to pick your spots more, and that way it’s more impactful and the guys respond better to it.”
After the fight, he showed his true character, saying, “I don’t want to hurt anybody. He just came over and thought he had to stand up for his teammate, and I respect him for doing that.”
Locker Room Glue and a Fan Favorite
It’s great to see that Ryan Lomberg’s teammates love him as much as his fans.
The Flames’ captain, Mikael Backlund, recently said, “Lombo is one of the best teammates I’ve ever had. He brings it every day, passion, energy… he’s pretty nails.”
He’s also the guy keeping spirits high on the bench, constantly talking and hyping up his team.
Justin Kirkland, who sat next to him during games, said, “He’s the absolute best — you’re happy when you’re around him.”
What Makes Lomberg Special
Ryan Lomberg isn’t the biggest or flashiest player in the NHL, but his journey, personality, and contributions make him a unique figure in hockey.
Whether it’s fighting for his teammates, making the locker room a fun place, or crashing weddings with a bouquet in hand, he always gives 100%.
The Flames are lucky to have him back, and fans love watching him do his thing on the ice.
Ryan Lomberg proves that hockey isn’t just about goals and stats—it’s about heart, hustle, and being the kind of teammate everyone can count on.
Here’s to more great moments with Lomberg, both on and off the ice!
