Sheldon Keefe Opens Up about Ryan O'Reilly's Impact
Kyle Dubas made a big move when he acquired Ryan O'Reilly at the trade deadline.
He's bringing leadership and experience to the Leafs' lineup and has an important role with the team.
O'Reilly comes through in big moments, as we saw in game three against Tampa Bay when he scored the equalizer with one minute left in the game.
Sheldon Keefe commented on his arrival with the team and what he brings to the table.
Sheldon Keefe Opens Up about Ryan O'Reilly's Impact
Here's what Keefe said to the media about the former Blues' captain :
"It is huge. It comes a lot through his personality and a lot through his experience. The team that we are trying to beat here has a team full of those guys. That is the reality, right? That is where a lot of the confidence comes from.
Once you have won, you have that extra swagger and confidence about you. You don't get rattled or fazed. It is just different. The more you can get of those kinds of guys, I think it is important.
Through not just his experience but his ability on the ice, Ryan can match all of that and bring all of that to the table. We knew he was going to be an important member of our team. He certainly has been in this series thus far."
The 32-year-old center has scored five points in three playoff games with the Leafs.
His determination is a model for the younger players like Matthews, Marner, Nylander, and Knievel, who can seek inspiration in his play to compete harder.
As reported on Maple Leafs Daily -
Sheldon Keefe asked about the impact Ryan O'Reilly has had on the Leafs; his answer just says it all
POLL |
Who do you think is the best leader? |
O'Reilly | 611 | 66.8 % |
Tavares | 304 | 33.2 % |
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Previously on HockeyPatrol