Oiler fan-favourite says goodbye to Edmonton after his expiring contract
Photo credit: Imagn Images
Former Edmonton Oiler Derek Ryan posted a heartfelt goodbye today on social media, thanking fans and friends after his four-year contract with Edmonton expired this summer.
"Edmonton, thank you for the best 4 years," Ryan said in his post. "My family and I will always cherish the city for the memories that we made there, and most importantly, the relationships that we formed.
Though Derek has not made an official announcement about an actual retirement from hockey, the end of his contract with the Oilers perhaps marks the beginning of the process, as no other team has shown interest in his services.
Before signing with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2015, his first NHL club, Ryan had played in Austria and Sweden. He made his NHL debut at the age of 29, a testament to his determination to play in the best league in the world.
He arrived in Edmonton in 2021 on a 4-year deal. He'd also spent four seasons with the University of Alberta, 2007-2011.
Last season, Derek Ryan spent his time between the NHL and the AHL, appearing in 36 games, though none of those were in the playoffs.
Derek was well-liked by fans and was a locker-room favourite, appreciated by his teammates for his rugged work-ethic and determination to remain in the line-up.
Over the 4-years with the Oilers, Ryan scored 29G and 31A in 261 game played, from 2021-22 through 2024-25, signing with Edmonton as a free agent in July, 2021.
Derek has played in 606 NHL games, scoring 82G and 129A.
We'd like to wish Derek Ryan all the best moving forward. Thank you for your years in Edmonton.
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