The Greenville Swamp Rabbits have secured the services of forward Ryan O’Reilly for the upcoming 2026‑27 season, cementing a key piece of their roster after a breakout rookie year.
O’Reilly, 26, finished his first professional season with the Swamp Rabbits with 24 points across 72 games, including 12 goals that placed him tied for fifth on the team and fourth among rookies in scoring.
A Journey From College to the Pros
Before turning professional, O’Reilly completed five NCAA seasons split between Arizona State University and Providence College, where he helped the latter reach the 2025 NCAA Tournament and finished his collegiate career with 64 points in 153 games.
His development continued in the USHL, where over four seasons with the Madison Capitols, Fargo Force and Green Bay Gamblers he amassed 98 points in 152 appearances, laying the groundwork for his transition to the professional ranks.
The forward’s professional debut came at the close of the 2024‑25 campaign with the Orlando Solar Bears, a stint that preceded his signing with Greenville and set the stage for his growth under the Swamp Rabbits’ system.
NHL Roots and Future Ambitions
O’Reilly’s hockey pedigree also includes being drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the fourth round of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft, a moment that signaled his potential to reach the highest level of the sport.
While the Red Wings remain a point of reference, O’Reilly’s immediate focus is on contributing to the Swamp Rabbits’ push for a playoff berth, a goal that aligns with the club’s broader vision within the ECHL and its affiliation with the American Hockey League.
The organization’s leadership highlighted the value of O’Reilly’s experience, noting that his blend of skill, work ethic and leadership will be instrumental as the team looks to build on its recent successes.
Fans can follow the team’s journey throughout the season on the official Greenville Swamp Rabbits website, as well as on the league’s digital platforms, including the National Hockey League and ECHL sites.