Ryan Reaves Shares Honest Outlook on His Future with the Maple Leafs
Photo credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Maple Leafs veteran enforcer Ryan Reaves was candid in his appearance on the Cam and Strick podcast, explaining what he believes his future holds as his career winds down.
For the Maple Leafs in 2024-25, they found a lot of success with a newfound mentality and philosophy lead by head coach Craig Berube, that brought them an Atlantic Division title and set them on the course to surprise a lot of people this upcoming season.
Call the enforcer! Ryan Reaves explains his future
However one player who wasn't necessarily a big factor was Ryan Reaves. Signed to add a veteran enforcer to their ranks, his style of play is pretty much non-existent at this point, and with a lack of other skills, he quickly fell out of favor.
A 16-year veteran, Reaves took the time to appear on the Cam and Strick Podcast, and explained how his season turned out, and what he looks forward to; giving us a glimpse into what the future may hold for him:
I still want to play.
I'm 83 games away from 1,000 right now, and I'd love to hold on for another two years, hit that mark, and ride into the sunset. I don't think I've got more than two years left, but the dream is always the Stanley Cup.
When I first came into the league, I remember telling my wife, 'Wouldn't it be cool if I hit 100 games?' Then it was 200, then 500, and now I'm thinking maybe I chase 1,000.
For a player who plays like me, that'd be a pretty cool accomplishment. So, Stanley Cup and 1,000 games: in that order.
I'm 83 games away from 1,000 right now, and I'd love to hold on for another two years, hit that mark, and ride into the sunset. I don't think I've got more than two years left, but the dream is always the Stanley Cup.
When I first came into the league, I remember telling my wife, 'Wouldn't it be cool if I hit 100 games?' Then it was 200, then 500, and now I'm thinking maybe I chase 1,000.
For a player who plays like me, that'd be a pretty cool accomplishment. So, Stanley Cup and 1,000 games: in that order.
Waived at the trade deadline in order to make room for some new faces, Reaves understood his role and took it in stride; he's the ultimate team player and a great locker room presence, and has carved out a long career for himself.
But does he earn a spot with Toronto?
Sadly, Ryan Reaves' style of play is part of a bygone era
Likely not, considering that the team has shifted drastically in a direction that doesn't really hold a place for Reaves.
The team aims for gritty, and hard-working albeit defensively savvy and intelligent players and for Reaves, who is a step behind in speed and doesn't play great defense or offense; he's going to get minimal if any time.
An enforcer by trade, Reaves had difficulty getting into scraps this season, and although he had one, it's not typical to see, and it's a detriment to the Leafs to keep other players on the sidelines for five minutes of him a night.
The one positive he brings is a locker room presence like none other, and his toothless smile and constant wisecracks allow the roster to take a breather and not get too into their own heads.
Reaves, 38, had only two assists in 35 games for the Maple Leafs this past season, and is too expensive for what he offers; in hindsight it's a signing Toronto would probably like to have back.
But for now, only two things remain: 1,000 games and a Stanley Cup.
For Reaves, he deserves both. But will he get there?
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 10 | 3805 ANSWERS Ryan Reaves Shares Honest Outlook on His Future with the Maple Leafs Will Ryan Reaves end up retiring this season? | ||
| Yes | 2302 | 60.5 % |
| No | 1503 | 39.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
TRENDING NOW
