'I Can't Make A Six-Foot Pass To Save My Life': Was Predators' O'Reilly Too Harsh On Himself?

"I Can't Make A Six-Foot Pass To Save My Life": Was Predators' O'Reilly Too Harsh On Himself?

The Nashville Predators’ struggles continue, dropping 10 of their last 13 games after a 3–1 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday night. Despite recording their only goal in the game, center Ryan O’Reilly voiced intense disappointment with his own performance following the defeat.

“I can’t make a six-foot pass to save my life. You’re not going to have much success if I’m playing pathetic like that. I’ve had one good year in my career.”

O’Reilly’s words reflected his frustration as a veteran leader trying to shoulder responsibility for the team’s poor stretch. Yet, statistical review tells a different story. He not only scored the team’s lone goal but also posted solid numbers across the board — four shots on net, one blocked shot, one takeaway, and a 56.3 percent success rate in faceoffs. Interestingly, NHL.com credited him with no giveaways during the match, contradicting his self-critique.

Perspective on O’Reilly’s Performance

Registered Nashville’s only goal of the night.
Recorded no giveaways, counter to his self-assessment.
Won more than half his faceoffs and provided reliable defensive play.

While O’Reilly continues to hold himself to an exceptionally high standard, the data shows his contributions remain vital during the Predators’ rough stretch.

Author’s Summary

Though Ryan O’Reilly criticized his play after the Predators’ loss, his stats suggest he was one of the team’s most effective players that night.

The Hockey News — 2025-11-07