Breaking: Derek Ryan of the Edmonton Oilers is a right wing hockey star. After Corey Perry tested positive for, the NBA completely banned him from hockey activities.

Derek Ryan, born on December 29, 1986, in Spokane, Washington, has defied the odds to become a key figure for the Edmonton Oilers. Standing at 5’10” and weighing 185 pounds, Ryan was undrafted into the NHL, a testament to his perseverance and determination. He began his hockey journey with the Spokane Chiefs in the WHL, where he showcased his scoring prowess. After four seasons, he transitioned to the University of Alberta, playing for the Golden Bears, where he netted 58 goals over four seasons. His performance in Canadian university hockey caught the attention of European leagues, leading him to play in Austria and Sweden. In Sweden, he was named the MVP of the Swedish Hockey League in 2015, an accolade that propelled him into the NHL spotlight. In June 2015, he signed with the Carolina Hurricanes, marking the beginning of his NHL career at the age of 29. Ryan has since played for the Calgary Flames and the Edmonton Oilers, accumulating over 600 NHL games and 82 goals and 126 assists. (Wikipedia, CTV News, TSN, nhl.com)

Throughout his career, Ryan has been known for his versatility, playing both center and right wing positions. His leadership and experience have been invaluable to the Oilers, especially during their playoff runs. In the 2024-25 season, Ryan was recalled from the Bakersfield Condors, the Oilers’ AHL affiliate, after recording three goals and five assists in 13 games. His return added depth to the Oilers’ forward lineup as they embarked on their playoff journey.(nhl.com)

Off the ice, Ryan is celebrated for his community involvement and commitment to his faith. He has expressed a desire to finish his career with the Oilers, aiming to secure a Stanley Cup victory before retiring. His story serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating that determination and hard work can lead to success, regardless of the challenges faced along the way.(nhl.com)

As the Oilers continue their playoff campaign, Ryan’s experience and leadership will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their pursuit of the Stanley Cup.