"Probably the last time we see DR": NHL fans react as Edmonton Oilers place Derek Ryan on waivers

By Mohit Pandey

Modified Jan 20, 2025 05:52 GMT

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The Edmonton Oilers placed forward Derek Ryan on waivers on Sunday. Ryan, a 5-foot-10, 170-pound veteran, has had a remarkable career, going from undrafted to playing over 600 NHL games.

A true late bloomer in the NHL, Ryan has established himself as a reliable bottom-six player, excelling as a penalty killer and faceoff specialist. His versatility allows him to play both center and right wing.

Edmonton Oilers fans took to social media to express their appreciation for Ryan's perseverance and hard work, thanking him for his services. Many praised his dedication, work ethic, and leadership qualities.

"Probably the last time we see DR! Thanks for the hard work Ryan & good luck", wrote a fan.

"Thank Deryk Ryan for being the only useful bottom 6 player for most years during Mcdavid era", noted one fan.

"I love players like Derek Ryan. He made it because of HARD WORK and perseverance. Father time never lost a battle but he'll of a career for a lunch bucket guy!", wrote another fan.

After signing a contract extension, Ryan's playing time began to decline. In the 2023-24 season, he scored 5 goals and recorded 12 points in 70 games. This season, his production has decreased further, with just 1 goal and 5 points in 33 games, coming as he has recently celebrated his 38th birthday.

The Edmonton Oilers' decision to place Ryan on waivers appears to be a strategic move to optimize their salary cap situation. With Ryan's departure, the team may focus on developing leadership qualities among their younger players.

Oilers fans continue to show their appreciation for Ryan's contributions, with many expressing sadness over his potential departure.

"Respect to derek ryan. Nothing but a professional since joining the team," wrote one X user.

"I knew something was going to happen but I'm still sad to see him go," reacted one fan.

"When I see Derek Ryan I think solid journeyman and I have the highest respect for him and his career," wrote another X user.

After a successful four-year stint with the University of Alberta Golden Bears in Canadian university hockey, Ryan pursued a professional career in Europe, playing three years in the Austrian league and one year in the Swedish Hockey League. He made his NHL debut at 29 with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2015, scoring his first goal on March 1, 2016.

Ryan played two seasons with the Hurricanes and three seasons with the Calgary Flames, before signing a two-year, $2.5 million contract with the Edmonton Oilers on July 28, 2021. He scored 22 points in his first season with the Oilers and 20 points in his second. The Oilers extended Ryan's contract on June 13, 2023, with a two-year, $1.8 million deal.

Calgary Flames may reunite with Derek Ryan after Edmonton Oilers place him on waivers

NHL: FEB 24 Flames at Senators - Source: Getty

The Edmonton Oilers placed forward Derek Ryan on waivers on Sunday, intending to assign him to their AHL affiliate, the Bakersfield Condors. Ryan is currently in the second year of his two-year, $1.8 million contract extension.

A veteran of seven different leagues, including stints in the Austrian and Swedish Hockey Leagues, Ryan made his NHL debut with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2015 at the age of 29. Over the course of his career, he has established himself as a reliable bottom-six player, excelling as a penalty killer and faceoff specialist.

There is speculation that the Calgary Flames, where Ryan played for three seasons before joining the Oilers, may be interested in claiming him off NHL waivers. This has sparked rumors of a potential reunion between Ryan and the Flames.

While there is no confirmation of Ryan joining the Flames, the possibility remains a topic of discussion. The situation will likely unfold in the coming days, determining Ryan's next destination.