One of the more positive developments for Columbus over the last couple years has been the steady improvement from defense prospect Mike Reilly.
After being drafted as an undersized defensemen (he was about 6'0', 150lbs), Reilly has filled into his body a fair bit - he's listed at 182lbs now - and has developed into one of the best defensemen in college hockey.
In Reilly's last two seasons he has piled up 75 points in 80 games played while playing for a very good program at the University of Minnesota.
Reilly is arguably the best defense prospect Columbus has, and is certainly one they could use going forward with their defense being in need of a makeover.
It seems unlikely he'll ever play a game with the Blue Jackets, though, as it looks like he'll do what Justin Schultz did a few years ago: forgo signing with the team that drafted him, test free agency, and let teams line up at his door pitching why they're the best fit.
If Reilly knew he was leaving UofM, and wanted to sign w #CBJ, he could have been signed and in the lineup as early as tonight vs. #NJDevils
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) March 31, 2015#NHL agent Pat Brisson, serving as family advisor for Mike Reilly, says "nothing to report." This is most likely not good news for #CBJ.
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) March 31, 2015Columbus still has some time on their side, and can offer Reilly a roster spot with the Blue Jackets if he wants it, but at this point it seems likely he'll test free agency, and will never suit up for the team.
Given all that has gone on, and how disappointing this season has been, it shouldn't be surprising that once again things will not go the team's way.
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