Derek Ryan landing spots: Top 3 NHL teams that should claim Edmonton Oilers forward off waivers

By Nestor Quixtan

Modified Jan 20, 2025 03:18 GMT

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The Edmonton Oilers announced on Sunday the placement of forward Derek Ryan on waivers. The 38-year-old center has struggled somewhat this season, scoring one goal and adding four assists in 33 games this season.

Ryan is predominantly a bottom-six forward, mainly playing on the checking unit for the Edmonton Oilers along with other veterans like Corey Perry. Derek Ryan’s placement on waivers allows the Oilers to give younger players like Noah Philp an opportunity to contribute to the team.

If Ryan clears, he’ll likely play in the AHL with the Bakersfield Condors. However, Derek Ryan could be a useful depth piece for teams looking to bolster their bottom-six center depth.

So, here’s a look at three NHL teams that should look into claiming Derek Ryan off waivers.

Top 3 NHL teams that should claim Derek Ryan off waivers

#3 Boston Bruins

The Boston Bruins have been in a tailspin, going 3-5-2 in their last 10 games after seemingly turning a corner following Joe Sacco’s promotion to head coach.

The Bruins are now sixth in the Atlantic Division and sinking fast. As such, the Bruins could add more bodies to support their bottom six, especially with the Bruins looking to find stability amid inconsistency throughout their lineup.

While Ryan won’t singlehandedly turn things around for Boston, he could add cheap depth and flexibility as the club looks to get back on track. Ryan is a hard worker who can fill in on the penalty kill, giving the Bruins a reliable veteran presence.

#2 Colorado Avalanche

The Colorado Avalanche have kept a revolving door in their fourth line this season. The club has tried a number of different players at the 4C spot, with Juuso Parssinen being the latest experiment. With the Avalanche rising fast in the standings, they will require more stability in their bottom six, specifically on their fourth line.

Moreover, the Avs have had a disappointing year from Casey Mittelstadt. If rumors are to be believed, the Avs could be looking to move on from Mittelstadt. If that’s the case, the Avs will have an open center spot.

While Ryan won’t fill in for Mittelstadt, the move could allow the Avalanche to roll with Ross Colton at 2C, Parssinen at 3C, and Ryan at 4C.

#1 Vancouver Canucks

The Vancouver Canucks, like the Boston Bruins, are a good team in turmoil at the moment. The Elias Pettersson and J.T. Miller trade rumors could potentially rip a hole in the Canucks’ center depth. While Ryan could not possibly replace Miller or Pettersson, his addition would at least give Rick Tocchet more options to fill out his lineup.

Adding Ryan couldn’t cost the Canucks anything, with the team losing nothing if he doesn’t work out. The Canucks could do well to pluck Ryan from their division rivals as there is nothing better than adding solid, veteran players on cheap contracts.