Predators’ Ryan O'Reilly believes key players worth millions give them an edge in competing for the Stanley Cup

Modified Jul 23, 2024 19:02 GMT

Nashville Predators forward Ryan O'Reilly feels like a kid on a Christmas morning after the team's big free-agency signings. On Jul. 1, the Predators made huge moves to bring in top players Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault and Brady Skjei. O'Reilly is over the moon about these new additions, as he believes they're key to the team's shot at the Stanley Cup.

"You know, I'm really excited. I think we have a window in Nashville with Forsberg, Yossi, and Soros all in their prime. With them and the recent additions, we have a great opportunity to compete for the Cup. Adding these new players just reinforces our belief that we can compete for the Stanley Cup," O'Reilly said (via TSN).

"Obviously, it’s a long road ahead, but it’s thrilling to add these pieces and see the organization’s confidence in us. When you add players like that, it shows the team is building something special and that there’s a strong belief in what we can achieve."

Stamkos and Marchessault each scored over 40 goals last season. Skjei has been a top-scoring defenseman. O'Reilly learned about Stamkos’s signing from teammate Luke Schenn. Schenn is known for his inside information.

General Manager Barry Trotz has taken a bold approach to free agency. He added O'Reilly, Schenn and Gustav Nyquist last year, who helped Nashville reach the playoffs. Despite a first-round exit against the Vancouver Canucks, O'Reilly thinks this year's new signings give the team a big advantage for the future.

Ryan O'Reilly speaks about Steven Stamkos signing with Predators

Ryan O'Reilly is happy about the Nashville Predators signing Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault and Brady Skjei. Stamkos' signing was big but tough for Tampa Bay Lightning players. Stamkos, drafted in 2008, was captain since 2014.

"July 1st, for myself, it was Christmas. Talking with the other guys it was like, 'Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh!' guy after guy." O'Reilly said.

Anthony Cirelli said it "sucks" but believes the Lightning can still compete. They re-acquired Ryan McDonagh and signed Jake Guentzel. Oddsmakers favor the Predators (+1600) over the Lightning (+2000) for the Stanley Cup.

O'Reilly is hopeful after last season's wild-card playoff appearance. But beating the Edmonton Oilers, the current favorites (+850), will be hard.