The Edmonton Oilers could be placing veteran on waivers
According to the latest reports from hockey insider Frank Seravalli, the Oilers could be looking at placing forward Derek Ryan on waivers.
During the NHL preseason, there has been an ongoing going battle for the 4th line center position. So far, prospect Noah Philp has emerged as the prime candidate due do his incredible performance thus far. In addition to that, Derek Ryan has recently suffered an undisclosed injury, further jeodpordizing his job security on the starting roster.
On a recent segment of Oilers Now with Bob Stauffer, Frank Seravalli joined the show and discussed Derek Ryan's future with the club. As per Seravalli, The Oilers want to accrue as much cap space as possible through the year, so they could place Derek Ryan on waivers for some savings.
- Frank Seravalli
As per Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily, The Oilers surely don't want to lose the veteran centerman, and they might not have to. Jason Spezza was waived by the Maple Leafs years ago for cap reasons, and he declared that if he was claimed he would retire. Derek Ryan probably doesn't want to move teams at 37 years old, and could likely make the same claim.
The reports from Seravalli have stirred up some controversy in Oil Country. Derek Ryan is an incredible teammate and has been regarded as an important locker room presence. Despite his age, Derek Ryan is a solid bottom 6 depth forward, and the chances of him being picked up on waivers is relatively high.
The Oilers have lost a few core players through trades and free agency during the NHL offseason, and potentially losing Derek Ryan could shake up the chemistry on the ice, especially in the locker which is arguably just as important.
source: Oilers Daily
Edmonton Oilers Considering Placing Veteran Forward on Waivers
