Did Derek Ryan just expose a real problem with how the Edmonton Oilers use their depth players… or is this a nothing burger?
Tyler Yaremchuk and Liam Horrobin react to Ryan’s recent comments about opportunity for bottom‑six forwards and depth guys in Edmonton. Using actual ice‑time, PK usage and deployment numbers, they dig into whether the Oilers really give their depth players a fair shot, or if leaning on McDavid and Draisaitl for everything actually makes sense.
In this video:
• Derek Ryan’s quote – what he actually said about depth player opportunity
• Ice‑time and usage breakdown of the Oilers’ bottom‑six
• Stars on the PK: smart strategy or blocking growth for depth guys?
• Are the Oilers’ depth players underutilised or just not producing enough?
• What this means for roster decisions and trade deadline planning
What do YOU think – are the Oilers holding back their depth players, or is Derek Ryan off base here? Drop your take in the comments 👇
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11 Comments
No not near enough.
Look at time on ice for 3rd and 4th lines compared other teams.
Derek ryan was not playing in his last season was he was too old and slowing down
Hard to disagree. Look at how depth players do here compared to other teams where they get an opportunity
How is it Panthers coach can teach defense, Craig Mctavish could teach defense, but Oilers are all offence?! Unless Oilers learn a defensive game, I can’t see them winning a cup!
When you make a deep run it’s usually the 3rd and 4th line guys that push you over so ya
These fella's are the ultimate Koolaid Drinkers. I love it. I hope Skinner wins the cup with Pitts ✌️
One trade I'd like to see is Jon Cooper for Knoblauch
What’s with the dumb little shots at Stauffer about being on at 12? It’s pathetic
Ryan certainly is highlighting an issue thats been there for a while. A couple more shifts for #3,4 lines makes sense in the long runs
Lol, spoken as a true bench rider. Everyone says play the other players more, but ignore the fact they get absolutely caved without their top 3 on the ice. Also, Oilers are not a Cup contender, sorry.