Sam O'Reilly proving he doesn't need Easton Cowan to thrive
We're already at the quarter final stage of the World Juniors, and Edmonton Oilers prospect Sam O'Reilly is proving that he can still achieve remarkable numbers even without his top teammate participating in the tournament.
O'Reilly is attempting to fill a hole that has pervaded the Edmonton Oilers for years: the right shot-centre who can contribute on the score sheet.
During the offseason, the oil swapped a top 12 protected 2025 first-round pick to the Philadelphia Flyers for their 32nd pick in the first round of the 2024 draft, promptly selecting Sam O'Reilly 32 overall from the London Knights of the OHL -- and what a pickup he's been so far.
Sam O'Reilly is currently playing with the OHL's London Knights this season, and he's putting up some incredible numbers without Easton Cowan, who's currently playing with Team Canada.
Sam O'Reilly on a heater without Easton Cowan
According to Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily, Easton Cowan suffered an injury in early December then left to the World Juniors, giving O'Reilly 12 games of more ice time and powerplay opportunities. He's making great on the opportunity, with 9 goals and 19 points in that time.
He impressed Oilers executives and media at training camp this year, even being considered as a dark horse for the fourth line center job.
-Liam McCormick
If Sam O'Reilly continues this impressive level of offensive production, he could very well put himself in the conversation to crack the starting roster next season.
