Insider Predicts Panthers To Face Stiff Competition From $2.1b Franchise for Preds’ Ryan O’Reilly
The Nashville Predators have endured a disastrous start to the 2025-26 season. Despite making some aggressive offseason moves, the franchise has struggled horribly. And trade speculations are already swirling around multiple veterans.
However, while the management decides whether to rebuild or wait until the season ends, Ryan O’Reilly has generated significant interest around the league. But one insider recently revealed which franchises are pursuing the veteran and what obstacles exist to completing a deal.
Insider Identifies New Jersey as Top Suitor for Ryan O’Reilly Alongside The Panthers
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman addressed the O’Reilly trade market during an appearance on the “DMase, Vingan & Daunic” podcast. The insider explained why teams are proceeding cautiously, given O’Reilly’s supposed no-trade protection.
“I think people are trying to figure out, you know, is it even worth going down this road because if we go through it, that will mean that Ryan O’Reilly doesn’t want to come here?” Friedman said, acknowledging the complications created by O’Reilly’s contract clause.
The insider suggested O’Reilly likely prefers destinations that offer competitive teams without overwhelming media scrutiny. Friedman believes that O’Reilly would focus on joining a good team without a lot of noise around it.
He identified the New Jersey Devils as the frontrunner for O’Reilly’s services. “One of the teams I know that’s really liked O’Reilly and has for some time is New Jersey,” the insider stated. He stated that unless he decides to go somewhere else, they will remain the favorites.
The reporter noted the Devils have pursued O’Reilly dating back to previous trade deadlines. Their longstanding interest positions them well if Nashville decides to move the veteran center. Friedman also discussed the Florida Panthers as potential suitors.
“I think that we’ve also wondered about teams like Florida, but Florida right now, like, they haven’t declared Barkov out for the season, and until they do that, I don’t think they would be able to do it,” he said.
The insider suggested Florida faces obstacles beyond just Aleksander Barkov’s injury status. “I also am not convinced that Florida would have what New Jersey would want. It’s what Nashville would want. It’s tougher for them to make the deal,” Friedman explained.
The reporter circled back to emphasizing New Jersey’s strong position. “But the one team I always kind of know about with you guys is New Jersey, because I know they’ve liked O’Reilly for some time,” Friedman concluded.
O’Reilly signed a four-year, $18 million contract with Nashville in 2023, carrying a $4.5 million cap hit through 2025-26. The 34-year-old center brings championship experience after winning the Stanley Cup with St. Louis in 2019 and earning the Conn Smythe Trophy.
The Devils possess the assets to construct a competitive offer. They have draft picks, prospects, and young NHL players that could entice the Nashville Predators. New Jersey’s $2.1 billion valuation also provides financial flexibility.
Whether O’Reilly waives his no-trade clause for the Devils remains the biggest question. His two-way ability and championship pedigree make him an ideal addition for contending teams. If he does, New Jersey appears positioned to land him over Florida.
