Ryan O'Reilly remains one of the few NHL players who defy the current safety trend by opting not to wear a visor, despite numerous close calls with sticks and pucks. The Nashville Predators forward is aware of the risks, having experienced injuries that could have been mitigated by facial protection. His resistance stems from a long-standing habit and a belief that wearing a visor might detract from his tough persona on the ice.

Alongside O'Reilly, notable players like Jamie Benn and Zach Bogosian also play without facial protection, reflecting an old-school mentality. Their comments reveal a reluctance to conform to modern safety protocols, despite the league’s history of serious eye injuries. This cultural debate within the NHL highlights the balance players must strike between safety and their established identities.