O’Reilly Criticizes Himself After Predators' Defeat
Nashville Predators veteran Ryan O’Reilly took full responsibility following the team's 3-1 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday. Despite scoring Nashville’s only goal, O’Reilly was clearly dissatisfied with his performance.
“I’m a No. 1 centre, turn the puck over everywhere, can’t make a six-foot pass to save my life. We’re not going to have much success if I’m playing pathetic like that,” O’Reilly told reporters. “I’ve had one good year in my career. I don’t have an answer, that’s for sure.”
Career Achievements vs. Current Struggles
The 34-year-old forward’s harsh self-assessment contrasts with his impressive career stats, which include 309 goals, 834 points in 1,168 games, and a Stanley Cup win in 2019 with the St. Louis Blues. This season, he has recorded six goals and ten points in 16 games.
Call for Veteran Leadership
O’Reilly acknowledged the Predators’ disappointing 2024 season when they finished third-last in the Western Conference, despite strengthening their roster in the offseason.
“The last few games, I’ve been making mistakes left and right. You can’t expect to win like that. There’s frustration everywhere. Guys are working, a lot of guys are working. It falls on leadership and we have to be the ones to get over it.”
Recent Challenges
Nashville also faced a difficult overtime loss against the Minnesota Wild on Tuesday, where a controversial call led to a goal after the net had come off its moorings.
Summary: Ryan O’Reilly’s candid self-critique highlights the struggles of the Predators this season and his plea for veteran leadership to help the team recover.