Leon Draisaitl honors Derek Ryan’s remarkable NHL journey
Leon Draisaitl took a moment to celebrate the incredible career of his Edmonton Oilers teammate, Derek Ryan, who announced his retirement at the age of 38. In a heartfelt tribute shared on Instagram, Draisaitl reflected on Ryan’s unconventional path to the NHL, highlighting the perseverance and dedication that defined his journey.
Ryan’s professional career is a testament to resilience. Despite entering the league as an undrafted player, he carved out a successful 10-season tenure in the NHL. Over the course of 606 regular-season games, Ryan netted 82 goals and registered a total of 209 points. In addition to his regular-season success, he made a mark in the playoffs, contributing 10 points to the Oilers’ postseason efforts.
Draisaitl’s Instagram post featured a graphic commemorating Ryan’s retirement, where he described his teammate’s career with the German word “unglaublich.” Translated into English, this term means “unbelievable” or “incredible,” perfectly encapsulating the essence of Ryan’s hockey journey.
A pivotal role with the Oilers
Joining the Oilers in the 2021-22 season, Ryan quickly established himself as a reliable center known for his defensive acumen and penalty-killing prowess. His presence in the locker room made him a crucial figure within the team, contributing to the camaraderie that propelled the Oilers to two consecutive Stanley Cup final appearances. Although Ryan did not secure a championship during his time with the team, the relationships he built, particularly with Draisaitl, will endure well beyond his playing days.
An unconventional path to the NHL
Derek Ryan’s route to professional hockey was anything but typical. After going undrafted, he spent four seasons at a Canadian university, honing his skills before venturing overseas. His remarkable performance in Sweden, where he led Örebro HK in scoring and earned the MVP title, caught the attention of the Carolina Hurricanes. This performance led to a one-year NHL contract that marked the beginning of his professional career in North America.
Throughout his time in the NHL, Ryan played for the Hurricanes, Calgary Flames, and the Oilers, showcasing his versatility and talent. Additionally, he proudly represented Team USA at the 2018 World Championship in Denmark, where he earned a silver medal, scoring four goals and providing three assists over nine games.
A unique identity in the league
Beyond his on-ice contributions, Ryan holds the distinction of being the NHL’s only known player from the Latter-day Saints community. His commitment to both his faith and sport has made him a unique figure in the league, further enriching the narrative of his remarkable journey.
As Derek Ryan embarks on the next chapter of his life, the legacy he leaves behind is one of inspiration and resilience, a true testament to the saying that hard work and determination can lead to incredible achievements.
