The Minnesota Wild are making waves in the Central Division, almost assured of a playoff spot. But sharing the division with powerhouses like the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars means the Wild need every edge they can get. They've already made a significant move by acquiring Quinn Hughes, and it’s paying off handsomely.
As the March 6 trade deadline approaches, the Wild are on the hunt for a top center. Vincent Trocheck from the New York Rangers has been a name tossed around, but there's a new target on their radar.
NHL insider Pierre LeBrun has highlighted Ryan O'Reilly of the Nashville Predators as a potential fit for Minnesota. O'Reilly is seen as a logical choice, and the Wild are reportedly interested.
While Steven Stamkos is also a potential target, O'Reilly presents a more budget-friendly option. The complication, however, lies in O'Reilly’s potential reluctance to be traded. The Predators are treating him as if he has a no-trade clause, but if he's open to a move, the Wild could be a strong contender for his talents.
LeBrun notes, "Ryan O’Reilly, meanwhile, is signed to another year at a $4.5 million cap hit and continues to be in high demand. It’s still not clear, though, if he would want to move.
League sources Thursday said his priority coming out of the break is helping get the Predators into the playoffs. His family loves it in Nashville.
There’s even been talk of a potential extension for him this summer. He is eligible for one on July 1 and is thought of well at the ownership level."
Despite this, a trade can't be entirely ruled out. The Avalanche, Stars, and Wild are all eyeing the 35-year-old center.
O'Reilly is having a standout season with 57 points (21 goals, 36 assists) in 58 games. His prowess at face-offs, with a 55.1% win rate, adds to his appeal.
Known for his playoff heroics, O'Reilly was instrumental in the St. Louis Blues' 2019 Stanley Cup victory, boasting 26 goals and 41 assists in 81 playoff games.
Wild General Manager Bill Guerin is clearly on a mission to bolster the roster for a deep playoff run. Whether O'Reilly will agree to a move from Nashville remains to be seen. But if the Wild are seeking an experienced center who excels in face-offs and scoring, O'Reilly fits the bill perfectly.