Sam O’Reilly – London Knights – Player Profile

HT	WT	DOB	POS	SH	OHL DRAFT	NHLCS	NAT
6’1”	180	Mar 30, 2006	C/RW	R	37th, 2022	24th, N.A.	CAN

SEASON	LEAGUE	TEAM	GP	G	A	PTS
2021-2022	GTHL U16	Vaughan Kings	32	17	17	34
2022-2023	GOJHL	London Nationals	35	26	37	63
2022-2023	OHL	London Knights	5	0	0	0
2023-2024	OHL	London Knights	68	20	36	56

Sam O’Reilly has shown significant progress over the course of the season, defying expectations with his notable development. Though his statistical output barely changed from the first half to the second half, his play markedly improved.

Though O’Reilly’s skating mechanics lack refinement, he can still gain sufficient speed to take on opponents one-on-one. Developing more agility and lateral mobility on his skates would further enhance his game.

O’Reilly has an exceptional work ethic and tireless drive. He strives relentlessly on offense to reach the net, forecheck tenaciously, and engage physically when needed. Moreover, he applies the same diligent effort in the neutral and defensive zones.

With his keen hockey sense, excellent anticipation, and ability to visualize plays in advance, he leverages his vision and playmaking talents to create prime scoring chances for his teammates.

O’Reilly lacks a powerful shot to beat NHL goalies, so he scores by going to the high-traffic areas of the ice. Though he can drive his line at lower levels, he’ll struggle to do so in the NHL. Instead, he profiles as a complementary piece who complements scorers, rather than leading the attack himself. This secondary scoring role still provides value, as depth scoring is crucial.

London drew significant attention this season, with scouts closely evaluating his teammate Sam Dickinson, projected as a top-10 pick in June. Numerous scouts came away impressed not just with Dickinson, but also with O’Reilly’s performance.