Oilers forward wants to finish his career with the Oilers.

PUBLICATION

Ryan Hall
May 17, 2023 (10:56)

SHARE THIS STORY

During the regular season, General managers fill out their rosters and look for players who will help them become a playoff team and Stanley Cup contender. The bottom six forward is one of the most important roles during a playoff run.

As the playoffs continue into rounds 3 and 4, the ice gets smaller, the lanes get tighter, and the superstars tend to shut down from being the high-powered offence they've done all season.

It's where players like Derek Ryan comes in. Ryan, who is a native of Spokane WA signed with the Oilers in 2021. During his tenure with the Oilers, he has become a fan favourite along with a welcome teammate who gives the group a much more rounded look. He has embraced his bottom-six role and was effective during this run.

The impending unrestricted free agent just finished a $1.25 million contract. At the age of 36, he's seeking to finish his career.

I feel with his dedication to the game, strong work ethic and his help showing players how to play the game in the playoffs. The Oilers should be giving him a contract extension for another two seasons.

With his age, he would likely receive a similar contract or a little less to complement the salary cap which the Oilers are having some struggles with as of late.

As the summer months approach, it remains to be seen how the Oilers will overcome their cap problems and ice a team that will be competitive or better going into October 2023.