Ryan Reaves’ Role Crucial to Maple Leafs’ Success.
Ryan Reaves had a spectacular homecoming as he returned to the lineup for the Toronto Maple Leafs against the Jets in Winnipeg on Saturday. With family and friends in attendance, Reaves made an impact with a first-period goal in the closing minute of the frame, tying the game after only 20 minutes. In little over nine minutes of ice time, Reaves finished with three hits, a minor for roughing, and a blocked shot, marking a strong return to the lineup for the regular fourth liner. While inquiries after the game centred on his offence in his comeback, Reaves reiterated that he’s fit, focused, and ready to help the Maple
Maple Leafs’ Reaves Happy with His Return While the questions seemed to centre on his goal — his second of the season — Reaves did talk about how hard it was to remain on the sidelines and watch while wanting to be out there with his team during his comeback from injury. “Honestly, treated it like a mini training camp,” he stated about his return to the lineup. “When the knee was healed, I made sure I wasn’t too frustrated about not being in the lineup due to the injury.” But I just wanted to make sure I worked hard every day. Not distracting the guys, having fun with them, and spending time on the road with them whenever possible. I believe I utilised it.
It was right for Reaves to return to Winnipeg, where he was born, and it was evident that he was playing with a little more energy. Given how his season began with the Maple Leafs, it was perhaps one of his best games in blue and white, and one that will almost certainly earn him another chance when the Maple Leafs return to the ice on February 5 to face the New York Islanders. More importantly, Reaves seemed pleased with his performance, which might bode well for the veteran enforcer.
“I don’t even know if it necessarily was just the goal,” he went on to say. “I like where my game was today. Except for the last shift, I think our line performed well on the forecheck and in the d-zone. I thought the game was right where I wanted it to be, especially for my first game back. So, yes, I plan to build on that.” If he can build on it, Reaves may be a useful midseason acquisition for the Maple Leafs. However, he must find a way to remain important in a team that has recently appeared to be more consistent. Reaves Can Find A Way to Stay in the Maple Leafs’ Lineup.
He’s an NHL veteran who has played 850 regular-season games. Throughout his career, he’s managed to remain relevant in some pretty talented lines, including the Vegas Golden Knights and Minnesota Wild. While the Maple Leafs have excellent forwards and have struggled with offensive consistency at times this season, what they will need in the playoffs is a player willing to go to bat for their stars, as Reaves has done in 22 games this season.