Montreal Canadiens

Trade Talk: Why Ryan O’Reilly Makes Sense for the Canadiens

As the Predators continue to slide, Ryan O’Reilly’s name is surfacing in trade chatter — and the Canadiens might be the perfect landing spot.

by
NHL Trade Talk
November 8, 2025

It’s no secret the Montreal Canadiens are still searching for a true second-line centre — and some around the league believe Ryan O’Reilly could be the answer. Following comments he made, including ‘only had one good year’ and ‘can’t make a six-foot pass to save his life’, there’s a sense that O’Reilly might be frustrated in Nashville.

The Nashville Predators veteran has endured a start that isn’t up to his expectations. Posting six goals and 12 points in 17 games, there’s talk of a reset with the organization. O’Reilly’s post-game comments after Thursday’s loss to the Philadelphia Flyers suggested a lack of confidence. However, his experience and two-way game still hold value — especially for a young Habs team needing faceoff help and leadership down the middle.

At 34, O’Reilly isn’t the elite offensive threat he once was, but he’s still winning nearly 60 percent of his draws — something Montreal desperately lacks. Adding him could ease the workload on Nick Suzuki. The Canadiens were rumored to be interested in Nazem Kadri, but the Calgary Flames are saying he’s not available. Brayden Schenn could be an option if the Blues choose to move on, but he’s $2 million more expensive per season and for one longer season.

<a rel= — Ryan O’Reilly Predators NHL Trade Talk

With two years left on his deal, O’Reilly fits perfectly as a stopgap and mentor. The cost? Nick Lariviere of The Sick Podcast writes, “To get O’Reilly, the Canadiens could take advantage of either the rising trade value of Oliver Kapanen from his early-season performances, or a prospect like Owen Beck, who is close to NHL-ready, along with 2 2nd round picks over the next two drafts. This may not seem like a lot, but given O’Reilly’s age and the possible struggles within the Predators organization, it may be enough to get it done.”

There’s no indication from the Predators that they are shopping O’Reilly. And, while he lacks trade protection, it’s been said the Predators will treat him like he’s got it and keep him in the loop on anything they might be discussing. Still, it’s a move that could make sense for both sides — and one worth watching if Nashville’s struggles continue.

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