The Montreal Canadiens have identified strengthening their center position as a key priority, and they seem to be targeting a top-tier player to fit into their top-six lineup. Recently, TSN Insider Trading’s Pierre LeBrun mentioned that the Canadiens have shown interest in Nashville Predators’ center Ryan O’Reilly, a notable name among NHL trade possibilities.
LeBrun noted, “The player catching my attention the most is Ryan O’Reilly. Teams seeking a solid center find him very appealing. The Predators, being Stanley Cup champions, have him on their roster, and I’ve heard Montreal is keen on him.” O’Reilly, a 34-year-old veteran forward known for his strong two-way play, would bring both skill and leadership to the Canadiens, especially useful for mentoring younger players. His $4.5 million salary cap hit extends through the 2026-27 season, implying the Canadiens would acquire him as more than just a short-term option.
This season, O’Reilly has played 22 games with the Predators, scoring seven goals and nine assists, accumulating 16 points, and winning 57.1% of his faceoffs. Last season, he played 79 games, tallying 21 goals, 32 assists, and 53 points. However, Nashville’s price for trading O’Reilly is steep—they reportedly seek a first-round draft pick plus a high-quality prospect as part of the deal.
Fan Take: This potential trade signals a strategic move by Montreal to bolster their roster with seasoned talent, which could elevate their competitiveness in upcoming seasons. For hockey fans, landing a player like O’Reilly is exciting as it combines experience with skill, promising more intense and skilled gameplay on the ice.
