Edmonton Oilers Pick Sam O'Reilly 32nd Overall – Hockey Writers – Edmonton Oilers

With the 32nd overall pick in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, the Edmonton Oilers selected Sam O'Reilly from the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).

About Sam O'Reilly

Sam O'Reilly is always willing to get involved and do whatever it takes to regain his strength and fitness. He keeps fighting and reaching difficult areas of the snow. Be it under the goal line, in the corners, or near the boards, O'Reilly is in the middle of it all and often comes out on top. He often does a lot of damage in tight spaces, driving hard to the net and causing chaos by getting goals or second chances. He has a great outside shot and is always available in the open ice, putting himself in the right spots at the right time to make a play or finish himself.

Related: THW's 2024 NHL Draft Live Tracker

Defensively, O'Reilly's power and strength are equally strong, doing an excellent job of pressuring puck carriers and taking away chances. He has great experience in cornerbacks, cuts, and prevents plays from happening. His long reach and size can quickly take up time and space for opposing players.

O'Reilly's work ethic makes him the most valuable player on any NHL team. Whether he can play on the wing or move up the middle will give them plenty of options to use his strength to their advantage. While he may not be the same option in the top six, he could prove to be an effective third-line power player, a tone-setter and a force defensively. His intelligence can be helpful on the penalty kill and his presence in front of the net can help on the power play.

Excerpt from THW's profile

“There are many prospects who will continue to fly under the radar heading into the 2024 NHL Draft. Another name to keep an eye on ahead of the final game is London Knights forward Sam O'Reilly, as he continues to rapidly improve his draft stock throughout the season.

“When you look at the production, you understand why O'Reilly was successful in that. O'Reilly is a versatile 200-meter player who can play a responsible game without the puck and shows a strong work ethic when he is in the offensive zone. She doesn't shy away from any opportunity to be any body type.”

Read the prospect's full profile here

How This Affects Anointed Programs

The Oilers liked what they saw in O'Reilly enough to give up a late pick in the first round to select him. The Oilers are happy to add him to their pool as he has good game habits, is tough to play against, and plays with bite while staying within the rules. He has excellent offensive hockey and puck skills and is difficult to contain down low.

The Oilers have added hope to their organization that drives the net very hard, can handle the puck, and check the scorers. He has a body all over the ice and can play the 200-meter game.