Terry O'Reilly

Boston Bruins enforcer and captain who played in three Stanley Cup Finals.

Terence Joseph James O'Reilly (born June 7, 1951) is a Canadian former professional ice hockey right winger. He played for the NHL's Boston Bruins and featured in three Stanley Cup Finals. He was one of the most effective enforcers in NHL history.

Quick Facts

Position: Right wing
Shoots: Right
Played for: Boston Bruins
Born: 7 June 1951
Birthplace: Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Draft: 14th overall

Lore & Background

O'Reilly was born in Niagara Falls, Ontario to his parents Audrey and Jim O'Reilly. His family comes from Irish ancestry. He grew up in Oshawa, Ontario and started playing hockey at a very young age. He originally started out as a goaltender until he was 13.

As a junior, he had problems initially sticking with the Oshawa Generals. He even turned down a scholarship offer from St. Louis University in order to continue playing for the Generals. Throughout his career, O'Reilly continued his education part time at the University of Toronto and the University of Ottawa. He played three years of junior hockey with the Oshawa Generals from 1968 to 1971.

He was picked by the Boston Bruins in the second round as the 14th pick overall in the 1971 NHL Amateur Draft. After being drafted he played with the Bruins affiliate the Boston Braves during the 1971–72 season. He made his NHL debut in the Bruins' final game of the 1971–72 regular season on April 2, 1972. He scored his first NHL goal in Boston's 5–2 loss to the Minnesota North Stars.

In 1976-77 O'Reilly discovered chemistry with center Peter McNab. The line, often featuring Stan Jonathan or others on left wing, became a serious offensive threat. He was promoted to the Bruins captain ahead of the 1983–84 season. O'Reilly retired at the end of the 1984-85 season to coach and spend more time with his family.

Reader's Guide

O'Reilly played in three Stanley Cup Finals: 1974 (lost to Philadelphia Flyers 4-2), 1977 (swept by Montreal), and 1978 (lost to Montreal 4-2). He was invited to the NHL All-Star Game twice (1974-75 and 1977-78). He received the Bruins Eddie Shore award for hustle/determination in two seasons (1974-75 and 1975-76). He became only the third player in Boston Bruins history to lead the team in both points and penalty minutes (1977-78). He was suspended the first 10 games of the 1982-83 season for accidentally punching referee Andy Van Hellemond during a fight with Dale Hunter in Game 7 of the previous year's Adams Division Final series.

Did You Know?

He scored his first NHL hat trick on November 10, 1977, vs. Los Angeles.
During a game vs. Minnesota in 1984-85, O'Reilly dislocated his shoulder and finished the game with his arm in a sling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Terry O'Reilly?

Terry O'Reilly is a Canadian hockey legend born in 1951 who spent his entire thirteen-season NHL career with the Boston Bruins. Drafted 14th overall in 1971, he became one of the league's most effective enforcers while also serving as team captain.

How long did Terry O'Reilly play for Boston?

He played exclusively for the Boston Bruins from his 1971 draft selection until his retirement, spending thirteen seasons in the franchise. This loyalty cemented his status as one of the most dedicated players in NHL history.

What is Terry O'Reilly's current status?

O'Reilly is now a retired legend who remains celebrated for his gritty contributions to Boston hockey. His legacy endures as he is remembered as one of the greatest enforcers the league has ever seen.