Ryan O’Reilly has built his career on consistency, leadership, and an elite two-way game. For the Dallas Stars, a team poised for a deep playoff run and in need of a player to fill the void left by Joe Pavelski, O’Reilly could be the missing piece to push them over the top. His ability to play a two-way game, provide veteran leadership, and mentor young players like Wyatt Johnston, Logan Stankoven, and Mavrik Bourque make him an ideal candidate. Let’s dive deeper into why Ryan O’Reilly would be a perfect fit for the Stars and how he could elevate their game to Stanley Cup contention.
Defensive Reliability and Two-Way Excellence
Ryan O’Reilly exemplifies the ideal two-way center, blending offensive contributions with elite defensive play. His Selke Trophy win in 2019 cemented his reputation as one of the NHL’s premier defensive forwards. O’Reilly’s ability to anticipate plays and position himself effectively makes him a nightmare for opposing players in the neutral and defensive zones. Over his career, he has consistently ranked among the top forwards in takeaways. Since the 2015-16 season, he has amassed 551 takeaways, ranking 10th overall in that category alongside players like Evgeni Malkin, Aleksander Barkov, and Filip Forsberg. His defensive commitment goes beyond backchecking; it’s about controlling the pace of play, forcing turnovers, and creating quick transitions to offense. For a team that values defense, O’Reilly would be an exceptional addition to an already solid group of defensive forwards.
Under head coach Peter DeBoer, the Stars emphasize structure and discipline, which align perfectly with O’Reilly’s strengths. His faceoff abilities add another critical dimension, as he has won 57.1% of his faceoffs since the 2015-16 season, placing him in the top 10 among players with over 100 faceoffs taken. This skill is particularly valuable during special teams play, where winning key draws on the penalty kill or power play can shift momentum. Given the Stars’ struggles on the power play, O’Reilly’s presence could prove invaluable. Additionally, Dallas ranks second in the NHL in goals against per game, trailing only the Winnipeg Jets. Adding O’Reilly would bolster an already elite defensive team, ensuring continued success in shutting down opposing offenses.
Leadership and Locker Room Presence
Ryan O’Reilly’s leadership extends beyond wearing a letter on his jersey. Known for his tireless work ethic, he consistently leads by example on and off the ice. O’Reilly is often the first player at practice and the last to leave, earning him widespread respect throughout the league. During his time in St. Louis, he played a pivotal role in mentoring young stars like Robert Thomas and Jordan Kyrou, providing them with the tools to succeed at the NHL level. This type of guidance would be invaluable for Dallas’ emerging talents, including Wyatt Johnston, who shone as a rookie in 2022-23; Logan Stankoven, who has faced recent scoring challenges; and Mavrik Bourque, who is adjusting to the NHL’s pace in his first full season.
While Dallas already has strong veteran voices in Jamie Benn and Tyler Seguin, O’Reilly’s addition would bring championship experience—especially with Joe Pavelski absent from the locker room. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the St. Louis Blues to their first-ever Stanley Cup in 2019, where he not only inspired his teammates but also delivered on the ice, scoring in four consecutive Finals games. His ability to stay composed under pressure and rally his teammates would provide the Stars with a calming, determined presence. For a team that has come close to winning a championship in recent years but fallen short, O’Reilly’s leadership could help them overcome both physical and mental challenges during deep playoff runs.
Versatility and Offensive Contribution
While O’Reilly is renowned for his defensive game, his offensive contributions are equally impressive. Over his career, he has posted seven 20-goal seasons and consistently averaged between 50 and 70 points per year. Even when dealing with injuries or playing more defensive roles, O’Reilly finds ways to contribute offensively. His adaptability makes him a versatile asset for any lineup. Whether anchoring a second line, serving as a shutdown third-line center, or playing on the wing, O’Reilly has shown he can thrive in any role.
For the Stars, O’Reilly’s offensive production would provide much-needed secondary scoring. While players like Evgenii Dadonov and Jamie Benn have been consistent, the Stars have struggled with inconsistent production from their top players, Roope Hintz and Jason Robertson. O’Reilly’s ability to drive play and create opportunities could alleviate some of the pressure on Robertson and Hintz while reinforcing the team’s depth scoring. Additionally, O’Reilly’s power-play expertise would be a welcome addition. In the 2022-23 season, he registered 28 power-play points, showcasing his importance to the man advantage. His net-front presence, quick hands, and vision make him a constant threat and could help revitalize a Stars power play that has struggled to find consistency.
Playoff Pedigree and Big-Game Experience
Perhaps the most compelling reason to acquire Ryan O’Reilly is his playoff pedigree. Few players in the NHL can match his postseason resume. With 67 points in 81 career playoff games, O’Reilly has consistently elevated his game under the brightest lights. His 2019 Stanley Cup performance—where he led the St. Louis Blues to victory and earned the Conn Smythe Trophy—is a testament to his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. During that playoff run, he not only provided offensive firepower but also shut down elite opponents, including Patrice Bergeron in the Finals. Balancing defensive responsibility with offensive production in critical moments is a rare skill that O’Reilly has mastered.
The Stars, despite their depth and talent, have fallen short in recent playoff runs due to inconsistent secondary scoring, a lack of experience in high-stakes situations, and an underperforming power play. O’Reilly’s ability to address these issues could make him the difference-maker for Dallas. His knack for scoring timely goals and protecting leads late in games would bring invaluable experience to a team hungry for a championship. Moreover, his calm demeanor and ability to mentor young players like Jason Robertson, Wyatt Johnston, and Logan Stankoven could help them navigate the physical and mental rigors of playoff hockey. O’Reilly’s presence could be the final piece that transforms the Stars from contenders to champions.
Conclusion
Ryan O’Reilly checks every box the Dallas Stars are looking to fill. At 32 years old, he brings a veteran presence to a roster that has relied heavily on younger players. With a manageable $4.5 million cap hit, he allows general manager Jim Nill to address other needs while adding a proven leader and performer. O’Reilly’s Stanley Cup experience, Conn Smythe credentials, and ability to excel in all facets of the game make him an ideal fit for the Stars. He wouldn’t be expected to replicate his peak years but rather to bring a winning mentality, elevate the play of those around him, and guide Dallas through the challenges of a deep playoff run. If the Stars are serious about winning their first Stanley Cup since 1999, Ryan O’Reilly is the type of player they need to target.
