The Nashville Predators have placed veteran center Ryan O'Reilly on the trade block with what insiders describe as a sky-high asking price that could reshape the team's future. With the Predators struggling at the bottom of the NHL standings, general manager Barry Trotz appears ready to begin a significant rebuild.
Substantial Trade Package Required
According to TSN's Pierre LeBrun, acquiring the 34-year-old O'Reilly would likely require a first-round draft pick combined with an A-level prospect. This substantial asking price comes despite O'Reilly approaching his 35th birthday in February and showing some signs of declining production.
The veteran center has recorded 13 points in 22 games this season, putting him on pace for approximately 48 points over a full campaign. O'Reilly remains under contract through the 2026-27 season with an average annual value of $4.5 million US, providing some financial certainty for potential suitors.
Proven Playoff Performer
O'Reilly brings significant championship experience to any potential trade destination. The crafty center won the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2019 while leading the St. Louis Blues to a Stanley Cup championship. His reputation as one of the league's premier faceoff specialists continues, though age appears to be gradually impacting his overall game.
His recent tenure with the Toronto Maple Leafs demonstrated his continued value. After being acquired at the 2023 trade deadline, O'Reilly produced 11 points in 13 regular-season games followed by 9 points in 11 playoff contests. Despite his strong performance, Toronto fell to the eventual Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers in five games during the second round.
Current Market Comparisons
The reported asking price for O'Reilly aligns with recent NHL trade patterns. Last March, Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving sent young center Fraser Minten and a first-round pick to Boston for defenseman Brandon Carlo. In another significant move, Treliving traded a first-round pick and forward Nikita Grebenkin to Philadelphia for center Scott Laughton and two draft selections.
Neither of those trades has yielded positive results for Toronto, with the team experiencing a disappointing start to the 2025-26 season and failing to advance beyond the second round last spring. These examples illustrate the premium prices teams are willing to pay for experienced players, even those not considered elite talents.
Potential Suitors Emerge
Interest in O'Reilly is already developing around the league, with the Montreal Canadiens identified as among the teams monitoring the situation. As the March 6 trade deadline approaches, more contenders will likely evaluate whether O'Reilly's combination of experience, faceoff proficiency, and leadership justifies the significant acquisition cost.
The Predators find themselves in last place overall in the NHL standings after finishing 30th during the 2024-25 season. This continued struggle suggests that moving veteran assets like O'Reilly could provide the draft capital and young talent necessary to accelerate a rebuilding process.
With the trade market beginning to take shape, O'Reilly represents one of the most intriguing names available. His combination of championship pedigree and specific skills makes him a valuable commodity, even as his overall production shows modest decline. The coming months will reveal whether any team is willing to meet Nashville's substantial demands for the veteran center.
