The Carolina Hurricanes have secured defenseman Mike Reilly with a one-year contract worth $1.1 million for the 2025-26 NHL season, team General Manager Eric Tulsky announced in Raleigh, North Carolina. This signing aims to bolster the Hurricanes’ defense with a seasoned player capable of contributing both offensively and defensively.
Reilly’s Career and Recent Playing History
Mike Reilly, 31, returned to action late in the 2024-25 season after missing significant time due to a heart procedure performed in November 2024. He recorded two assists in 18 games with the New York Islanders that season. Over 418 NHL games, Reilly has accumulated 18 goals and 106 assists, totaling 124 points while playing for multiple teams, including the Minnesota Wild, Montreal Canadiens, Ottawa Senators, Boston Bruins, Florida Panthers, and the Islanders. Additionally, Reilly contributed 80 points in 139 games for the AHL’s Iowa Wild from 2015 to 2018. The 6-foot-2, 191-pound defenseman was originally drafted 98th overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2011.
College Achievements and International Experience
Before turning professional, Reilly played three seasons at the University of Minnesota, where he scored 89 points in 117 games. During his senior year, he earned the Big Ten Conference’s Defensive Player of the Year recognition and was nominated for the Hobey Baker Award after posting 42 points in 39 games. Internationally, Reilly represented the United States at the 2015 IIHF World Championship, winning a bronze medal, and helped Team USA capture gold at the 2013 IIHF U20 World Championship.
General Manager’s Perspective and Future Outlook
Eric Tulsky expressed confidence in Reilly’s ability to strengthen the Hurricanes’ defensive lineup for the upcoming season.
“Mike is a veteran defenseman who is capable of stepping in and contributing on both ends of the ice,”
Tulsky said.
“He missed time with a health procedure last season, but returned to action in the spring and will be ready to go for training camp.”
This contract suggests the Hurricanes expect Reilly to bring experience and stability during the 2025-26 campaign.