Revisiting the Blues' Trade for Ryan O'Reilly

The St. Louis Blues acquired Ryan O'Reilly from the Buffalo Sabres in a trade that eventually played a key role in their Stanley Cup victory.

Details of the Trade

St. Louis and Buffalo agreed to send Ryan O’Reilly to the Blues 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. Initially, the trade appeared heavily in favor of the Blues.

Long-Term Impact

More than six years later, opinions on the trade’s balance have shifted. The deal included several components influencing outcomes for both teams.

Perspectives from Both Teams

To fairly judge the trade, it is important to understand each team's circumstances and fan base views. Both sides believe they benefited in different ways.

Ryan O'Reilly's Career Before the Trade

Drafted 33rd overall in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft by the Colorado Avalanche
Traded to the Buffalo Sabres due to salary concerns, in exchange for Nikita Zadorov, Mikhail Grigorenko, and a 2015 draft pick
Played 224 games over three seasons for the Sabres, scoring 65 goals and totaling 176 points
Consistently scored at least 60 points per season despite the team's overall losing record (93-118-35)
At 27, his passion for the game had diminished partly due to team struggles

“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.”

O’Reilly’s move to St. Louis marked a turning point in his career and in the Blues' fortunes.

Author's Summary

This trade, initially viewed as one-sided, evolved into a complex transaction with enduring effects for both franchises, highlighting the unpredictability of NHL trades.

The Hockey Writers — 2025-11-02