Comets Corner with Playmaker Cal O'Reilly
January 23, 2014 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Utica Comets News Release
Though many may initially overlook it, Comets forward Cal O'Reilly has been an integral part of the roster since he was signed to an SPC (standard player contract) back in November. To date, O'Reilly has recorded 15 points (3-12-15) in 20 games played with the Comets. O'Reilly also has the highest +/- rating on the team (4) and hasn't seen any time in the box, as he is the only player currently on the Comets roster with no penalty minutes.
When asked if these factors have contributed to his success with the team, O'Reilly replied, "I do think my game is getting better. I'm not exactly where I think I can play, but I'm improving every game." He also finds it important to focus on both offensive and defensive aspects of the game. Even though he plays center for the Comets, O'Reilly explains that he "takes pride in both ends of the ice," which explains why he's tied for third in assists on the team with 12. O'Reilly is a smart, selfless player who takes his time with the puck in order to make the best decision possible, even under times of pressure.
It is no mere coincidence that O'Reilly shines on the ice. Hockey genes run in his family, as his younger brother, Ryan O'Reilly, currently plays for the Colorado Avalanche of the NHL, where he has recorded 33 points in 46 games (18-15-33). "Having my brother to play hockey with growing up was great," O'Reilly said. "My sisters played hockey as well. Even my parents would come and play sometimes when we were young. It was definitely something our family enjoyed doing and incorporating into our lives."
Cal O'Reilly has been active in professional hockey since 2006, and spent the 2012-13 and part of this season with the Magnitogorsk Metallurg of the KHL. Ironically, Ryan O'Reilly also spent part of the 2012-13 season playing for Magnitogorsk during the NHL lockout. "It was unfortunate that we never got to play together in Russia," Cal O'Reilly explained. "I got hurt and came home for a bit right when he got there. By the time I got back he was already back with Colorado." Now that both brothers are playing in the states, they are able to keep in touch more often. "We're pretty close, but it's obviously easier to be over the summer when we train together," he said.
While he may not be a fighter, Cal O'Reilly has proved to be one of the smartest guys on the ice for the Comets in their inaugural season. A humble player, he credits the success to his fellow teammates. "I'm playing with great players who contribute to the fact that I have no PIMs and a good +/- rating. It's definitely a team effort."
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