Ryan O’Reilly signs four-year contract (!!!) with Nashville

Let’s just say I wasn’t ready to see this news today. We knew there was real interest in Ryan O’Reilly across the NHL…

We’re talking about a four-year contract (!!!) that will pay him $4.5 million annually.

The length of the agreement is, well… a bit odd.

[content-ad]I say it’s a bit odd because in actuality, O’Reilly seemed to slow down last year.

I can’t wait to see if he’ll be able to bounce back in Nashville.

In the end, the Preds get an NHL-experienced player who will fill a need at center. Remember, after all, that the Preds traded Ryan Johansen to Colorado in the last few days and that yesterday, the team bought out Matt Duchene’s contract.

O’Reilly automatically becomes the Predators’ first center. Will he be able to build chemistry with Filip Forsberg?

The Preds weren’t done with their work today. The team also signed Luke Schenn to a three-year deal. He will earn $2.75 million per season.

That’s surprising, too. After all, the Preds are entering a rebuild and won’t necessarily be good for a few more seasons.

But, on the other hand, it makes sense. Barry Trotz wants to surround his youngsters by bringing experience into the organization, and he’s succeeded, after the signings of Ryan O’Reilly and Luke Schenn.

Extension

I can’t wait to see what happens next in Nashville.

The team’s GM has about $16 million to maneuver after signing the two veterans… Which is a lot of money.

Will Trotz decide to seek out other veterans to help the team’s future? To be continued.