Revisiting the Blues' Trade for Ryan O'Reilly
The St. Louis Blues acquired Ryan O'Reilly from the Buffalo Sabres in a trade that significantly impacted the NHL. This transaction eventually played a key role in the Blues' Stanley Cup victory.
Details of the Trade
The trade involved the Blues receiving Ryan O'Reilly while the Sabres obtained Patrik Berglund, Vladimir Sobotka, Tage Thompson, a first-round pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, and a second-round pick in the 2021 NHL Draft. Initially, many believed the deal heavily favored St. Louis.
Assessing the Trade Over Time
More than six years after the trade, its implications are still debated. Both teams and their fan bases have reasons to feel they benefited, reflecting the complex nature of the exchange.
Ryan O’Reilly’s Career Background
Originally drafted 33rd overall in 2009 by the Colorado Avalanche, O’Reilly quickly became popular among fans. Due to concerns over his potential contract cost, he was traded to the Sabres for defenseman Nikita Zadorov and forwards Mikhail Grigorenko and J.T. Compher (31st overall in 2015).
Performance with the Buffalo Sabres
During three seasons in Buffalo, O’Reilly played 224 games, scoring 65 goals and totaling 176 points. Despite consistently recording no fewer than 60 points per season, the team's collective record of 93-118-35 contributed to O’Reilly's diminishing passion for the game at age 27.
Ryan O’Reilly was “traded to the Sabres in exchange for defenseman Nikita Zadorov, forwards Mikhail Grigorenko and J.T.”
The Buffalo Sabres had a “collective record of 93-118-35 over his three seasons,” which influenced O’Reilly’s feelings toward the game.
Author's summary: Ryan O'Reilly's trade from Buffalo to St. Louis remains a complex transaction with lasting effects, balancing initial perceptions with the long-term impact on both franchises.