Ryan O’Reilly is a Canadian professional ice hockey player born on February 7, 1991, in Clinton, Ontario.
He plays as a centre and serves as an alternate captain for the Nashville Predators in the National Hockey League (NHL).
Known for his two-way play, intelligence, face-off skills, and leadership, O’Reilly has built a reputation as one of the league’s most complete forwards.
Drafted 33rd overall by the Colorado Avalanche in 2009, he has played for several NHL teams, including the Avalanche, Buffalo Sabres, St. Louis Blues, Toronto Maple Leafs, and now the Predators.
Siblings
Ryan is the younger brother of Cal O’Reilly, a former professional hockey player who also reached the NHL and briefly became his teammate with the Buffalo Sabres.
Ryan has two sisters, Tara and Shannon.
Tara O’Reilly served as captain of the Carleton Ravens women’s ice hockey program in 2009.
Beyond his biological siblings, Ryan’s family experience was shaped by his parents, Brian and Bonnie O’Reilly, who opened their home to nearly 50 foster children over the years.
Career
O’Reilly made his NHL debut with the Colorado Avalanche and quickly established himself as a reliable, high-IQ player.
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After several seasons in Colorado, he was traded to the Buffalo Sabres in 2015, where he signed a significant contract extension and was named an alternate captain.
His time in Buffalo showcased his offensive capabilities, including a 60-point season that helped improve the team’s performance.
In 2018, O’Reilly was traded to the St. Louis Blues, a move that proved transformative.
He played a pivotal role in the team’s success and continued his career with the Toronto Maple Leafs before joining the Nashville Predators.
Throughout his career, spanning over 1,200 NHL games, he has accumulated hundreds of points while excelling in defensive responsibilities and special teams play.
Accolades
O’Reilly won the Stanley Cup with the St. Louis Blues in 2019 and earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoffs’ most valuable player for his outstanding performance throughout the postseason run.
That same year, he also captured the Frank J. Selke Trophy as the NHL’s top defensive forward.
Earlier in his career, he received the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy in 2014 for sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct combined with strong play.
O’Reilly has been selected to the NHL All-Star Game multiple times, including in 2016, 2019, and 2020.
He has also represented Canada internationally, contributing to World Championship efforts.
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