Predators’ Ryan O’Reilly Reflects on Team Struggles
Ryan O’Reilly has recorded six goals and 10 points over 16 games with the Nashville Predators in the 2025-26 season. After the Predators’ 3-1 defeat to the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday, the 17-year NHL veteran openly expressed his frustration with the team’s recent performance, having lost 10 of their last 13 games.
O’Reilly’s Honest Assessment
“I can’t make a 6-foot pass to save my life… I’ve had one good year in my career.”
O’Reilly admitted he struggled throughout the game, finishing with a goal and 18:54 of ice time. He criticized himself as a “number-one center,” highlighting numerous turnovers and poor passing.
Comments on Team Performance
“We had a chance to take full control of the game and we didn’t, we let them back in and they pushed back,” O’Reilly explained. “If I’m playing pathetic like that, we’re not going to have much success.”
Search for Solutions
When asked about finding answers, O’Reilly stated, “I don’t know the answer. I’ve had one good year in my career … I don’t have any answers, that’s for sure.”
Views on Offensive Zone Play
Responding to a reporter’s question about their offensive zone development, he said, “It’s nice having the puck in the offensive zone, but when you don’t win games, it’s disappointing. I just want to win games, it’s as simple as that.”
Visibly upset, the 34-year-old O’Reilly made it clear his focus remains on winning despite the team’s recent setbacks.
Summary: Ryan O’Reilly candidly expresses frustration over his and the Predators' ongoing struggles, emphasizing his desire to improve and win games despite a tough season.