Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports

According to a statement from the Edmonton Oilers, the team has come to terms on an extension with veteran forward Derek Ryan. Signed to a new two-year contract worth an annual average salary of $900K, the veteran will be back as the Oilers try to take the next step in their progression as a team, hopefully putting themselves in contention for the Stanley Cup in 2024 and 2025.

Ryan is a veteran defensive center who’s been among the most effective fourth-liners in the league in the past few seasons. In his second season with the Edmonton Oilers, Ryan showcased his consistent presence on the ice, participating in all 80 games of the 2022-23 campaign. Throughout the season, he contributed 13 goals and seven assists, accumulating a total of 20 points. Notably, Ryan maintained a commendable plus/minus rating of +11, highlighting his positive impact on both ends of the ice.

Ryan’s career statistics demonstrate his reliability as a seasoned NHL player. Over 500 regular season games, he has recorded an impressive 76 goals and 115 assists, resulting in a total of 191 points. Furthermore, Ryan’s experience extends to the playoff stage, where he has contributed three goals and six assists across 41 appearances, showcasing his ability to elevate his game in high-pressure situations.

As the Oilers continue to build a competitive roster, Derek Ryan’s consistent performance and veteran presence make him a valuable asset to the team. His ability to contribute offensively while maintaining a responsible defensive presence underscores his importance in the lineup. As Ryan’s career progresses, his track record of reliable production suggests that he will continue to be a reliable contributor for the Oilers and a player to watch in future seasons.

In his 500th NHL game, Derek Ryan closed the 2022-23 regular season, a notable achievement for a player who debuted at 29. He’s taken a different path to the NHL than most, but he’s proven himself to be quite valuable. The Oilers still have Mattias Janmark, Nick Bjugstad, and Devin Shore to talk to as pending UFAs.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Timberwolves chew up Nuggets to force Game 7
Rangers secure spot in conference finals after stunning third-period comeback over Hurricanes
Xander Schauffele makes history in first round of PGA Championship
Yankees' Hal Steinbrenner shares massive Juan Soto contract update
Steelers' Cameron Heyward addresses contract holdout
Knicks star ruled out for potential closeout game
Dodgers starter undergoes season-ending UCL surgery
Clemson’s Dabo Swinney gives smug response about not using transfer portal
Caitlin Clark's debut was most-watched WNBA game in more than 20 years
Watch: Chris Kreider's natural third-period hat trick shatters Hurricanes' comeback hopes
Veteran NFL safety will either play for this team or retire in 2024
Former Red Wings head coach linked to open NHL job
How Patriots' Drake Maye has already impressed Jacoby Brissett
LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Stephen Curry among Forbes' highest-paid athletes for 2024
Steve Cohen addresses if Mets could again be trade-deadline sellers
Tiger Woods ruins strong first round with sloppy finish at PGA Championship
NFL responds to speculation about Chiefs schedule and Taylor Swift
Despite hopes for change, NASCAR championship weekend will return to Phoenix in 2025
Chiefs will achieve something not done since 1927 with 2024 schedule
Yankees' Aaron Judge comments on resurgence after bad slump

Want more Oilers news?

Join the hundreds of thousands of fans who start their day with Yardbarker's Morning Bark, the best newsletter in sports.