Revisiting the Blues' Trade for Ryan O'Reilly

The St. Louis Blues acquired Ryan O'Reilly from the Buffalo Sabres, a move that played a key role in their Stanley Cup victory. This trade sent shockwaves through the NHL when announced.

Trade Details

The Blues and Sabres agreed to send Ryan O'Reilly to St. Louis in exchange for 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.

Initial Impressions

At first glance, the trade appeared heavily in favor of the Blues. However, more than six years later, the deal’s value is still debated, as multiple factors influence its long-term perception.

Background on Ryan O’Reilly

O'Reilly was selected 33rd overall in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft by the Colorado Avalanche and quickly became a fan favorite. Concerned about his future contract costs, Colorado traded him to Buffalo for defenseman Nikita Zadorov, forwards Mikhail Grigorenko and J.T. Compher, the 31st pick in the 2015 Draft.

O’Reilly’s Time in Buffalo

During three seasons with the Sabres, O'Reilly played 224 games, scoring 65 goals and amassing 176 points. Despite consistently producing over 60 points each season, Buffalo’s collective record was 93-118-35. This underwhelming team performance caused the then 27-year-old O’Reilly to lose enthusiasm for the game.

"Though he never produced less than 60 points in a single season, a collective record of 93-118-35 over his three seasons in Buffalo left the 27-year-old O’Reilly with a loss of love for the game."

Trade Impact

Both teams’ fan bases still debate who benefited more, as the trade included several elements that have shifted its perceived value over time.

Author's summary: The Ryan O'Reilly trade remains a complex NHL transaction that shaped careers and team futures, with its value still contested today.

The Hockey Writers — 2025-11-02