Spokane Braves alum Derek Ryan (2002-04) came within a game of winning the Stanley Cup with the Edmonton Oilers last spring. Now, as the Oilers begin a new season, they aim to return to the Stanley Cup Final. KIJHL communications director Emanuel Sequeira caught up with Ryan over the phone before he headed back to Edmonton. Last season, Ryan posted five goals and 12 points in 70 games, adding an assist in 19 playoff appearances.
In this Q&A, Ryan discusses his off-season, the Stanley Cup experience, and more. The interview was edited for length.
KIJHL: Derek, what was your off-season like as you prepared for another season?
DR: It was a shorter off-season since we played so late—almost into July. I took a couple of weeks off, spent time with family, and traveled back to Spokane, where we spend most of our off-season. We went on a camping trip in Idaho and caught up with people we hadn’t seen in a while. Once training started, it was different from other years because of the short time frame, but the Oilers put together a solid program for us. I worked with Tony Waters in Spokane, training alongside other pro players, including one NHL guy. I trained in the mornings four or five times a week. Beyond that, it was about enjoying time with family, whether at the lake or by the pool.
KIJHL: Was there a specific area you focused on in your training?
DR: At 37, you don’t add many new elements. You stick to what works, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve focused more on my cardio, aerobic and anaerobic, to maintain a strong base. Speed and explosiveness are critical—if you lose that, it’s hard to stay competitive in the NHL. On the ice, it’s the usual stuff: puck touches, skating, edge work, passing, and shooting.
KIJHL: Is there an aspect of your game you’re determined to improve?
DR: I’m always trying to add more offence—working on playmaking and finishing. I want to maintain my skating and strength, but a big focus is puck protection. Being a smaller guy, it’s important to hold onto the puck and evade defenders, especially since so much of the game is played in the corners and along the boards.
KIJHL: What was it like playing for the Stanley Cup?
DR: Amazing. It was a dream come true, not just making the Final, but the entire playoff run. It’s a special experience, especially in a passionate hockey market like Edmonton. The city was buzzing, and the fans were amazing. Everywhere I went, people had kind words and appreciated the effort we put in to get to the Final. My family was there for the entire journey, and we had a lot of relatives visiting. My wife jokes that our house was like an Airbnb for two and a half months. It was great to share that with the people who matter most. My kids, who are 10 and almost eight, are old enough to remember it. Hopefully, we can go even further this season.
KIJHL: What excites you about the upcoming season?
DR: At this stage of my career, you never know how many seasons you have left, so you have to give it everything. The exciting part is that the Oilers are poised to compete at a high level again. I think we’re contenders. For an older guy like me, who wants to win more than anything, that’s exciting. A lot of the guys feel like we have unfinished business, and we’re all eager to get back to work and chase our goal.
KIJHL: How many more seasons do you see yourself playing in the NHL?
DR: At this point, it’s one year at a time. I’m aware that most players don’t get to choose when they’re done in the NHL—only the best do. I’m on a one-way contract this season, and that’s where my focus is.
