Former Maple Leaf Ryan Reaves Already Making His Presence Felt in San Jose
Photo credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
Ryan Reaves got a lot of criticism during his time with the Maple Leafs however it seems like he is already making his mark on the San Jose Sharks this preseason.
When Toronto signed Ryan Reaves, they expected him to bring a lot of toughness and physicality to a team who needed more of it. However, his contract was too lucrative and he didn't offer much of anything in his time here, and was shipped out.
Sent to San Jose for defenseman Henry Thrun, Reaves was looking forward to the chance to get in the lineup to play in his 1,000th career NHL game, a chance he wouldn't have really otherwise gotten in Toronto.
How Reaves Is Wasting No Time With the Sharks
While it might be a little wild to bring in a 38-year old for a rebuilding team, but it seems like Reaves is already making his presence known and showing that even though he's a true veteran; he still brings the pain.
However, the fans weren't too pleased with Reaves' hit and many believed it was dirty, while others were questioning why this is even a focal point given Reaves isn't a part of the team:
San Jose Fans Already Seeing the Version of Reaves Leafs Expected
Why Reaves didn't decide to showcase this type of aggressiveness with Toronto all the time is another question for another day, but it's clear San Jose fans are reaping the benefits.
They shouldn't expect Reaves to play more than a depth fourth line role, nor should they expect any type of offensive capabilities beyond perhaps a couple of assists here and there. But if he is motivated, that could be a great asset for the Sharks.
A very young team, they need someone like Reaves; who off-ice is an incredible locker room leader and mentor, to help their young stars with the rigours of the day to day grind.
He's been a part of the league for 18 years so clearly he knows how to stick around, and through sheer determination and perseverance has lasted so long even with the game evolving.
Last season, Reaves had two assists in 35 games and was often a healthy scratch; over his career he's played 912 games and registered 137 points (63 goals, 74 assists); he's played for St. Louis, Vegas, Toronto, Minnesota, Pittsburgh, and the New York Rangers.
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