Ryan O'Reilly has reportedly made a decision regarding his next destination in the NHL
Photo credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
The trade deadline chatter is heating up, but Ryan O'Reilly has zero interest in playing for Martin St. Louis and the Montreal Canadiens.
Hockey insider Nick Kypreos recently shattered any lingering illusions regarding the veteran center packing his bags for a move up north.
It appears the Nashville Predators forward wants to stay completely out of the intense media spotlight that constantly surrounds the historic franchise.
You can hardly blame a 35-year-old for wanting to chase another Stanley Cup instead of jumping into a high-pressure rebuild situation.
O'Reilly already experienced the heavy scrutiny of a major Canadian market during his brief stint with the Toronto Maple Leafs a few seasons ago.
He is currently putting together a massive offensive output in Smashville to keep his team in the fight.
Through 57 games on the schedule, the Clinton native has already racked up 20 goals and 36 helpers.
A Veteran Knowing What He Wants
Posting 56 points at his advanced age proves his trusted two-way game remains elite across the entire league.
The former Conn Smythe winner already hoisted the hardest trophy in sports with the St. Louis Blues back in the spring of 2019.
He knows exactly what kind of defensive structure and roster depth it takes to survive the grueling two-month playoff grind.
Montreal simply cannot offer him a legitimate shot at a deep postseason run right now.
The Canadiens are still working hard to establish a consistent winning culture inside their locker room on a nightly basis.
Bringing in a high-profile veteran rental never really aligned with the long-term vision for the Canadiens front office anyway.
With 1209 career NHL games under his belt, the center has earned the right to be picky about his next destination.
O'Reilly holds all the cards and will dictate exactly where he finishes this campaign, ensuring it will not be at the Bell Centre.
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| POLL | ||
FEVRIER 25|178 ANSWERS Ryan O'Reilly has reportedly made a decision regarding his next destination in the NHL Would you want Ryan O'Reilly on your team for a playoff run? | ||
| Yes | 119 | 66.9 % |
| No | 59 | 33.1 % |
| List of polls | ||