Revisiting the Blues' Trade for Ryan O'Reilly

The St. Louis Blues acquired Ryan O'Reilly from the Buffalo Sabres in a trade that sent waves through the National Hockey League. This transaction played a significant role in the Blues’ eventual Stanley Cup victory.

Details of the Trade

The Blues received Ryan O’Reilly 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 deal appeared heavily tilted in favor of St. Louis.

Long-Term Impact and Perception

More than six years after the trade, opinions on its balance remain divided. Numerous factors influence how the trade is viewed by both teams and fans, each believing they gained an advantage. Understanding these perspectives requires examining the background and context from both sides.

Ryan O’Reilly's Career Before the Trade

Selected 33rd overall in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft by the Colorado Avalanche, O’Reilly quickly became a fan favorite. Concerns over his potential long-term salary costs led to his trade to the Buffalo Sabres. The Avalanche received defenseman Nikita Zadorov and forwards Mikhail Grigorenko and J.T. Compher, the 31st pick in the 2015 NHL Draft.

O’Reilly’s Time with the Sabres

O’Reilly spent three seasons with Buffalo, appearing in 224 games, scoring 65 goals and tallying 176 points. He consistently produced at least 60 points per season. However, the Sabres struggled with a combined record of 93-118-35 across those seasons, which affected O’Reilly’s enthusiasm and connection to the game.

"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."

Ultimately, the trade’s many variables continue to fuel debate over which franchise benefitted most.

Author's summary: Ryan O'Reilly’s trade to the Blues reshaped NHL history, proving pivotal for St. Louis while sparking lasting debate over the trade’s true value to both teams.

The Hockey Writers — 2025-11-02