The Toronto Maple Leafs are said to be interested in adding veteran winger Ryan Reeves to their lineup for next season. With a desire to add toughness and physicality, the Maple Leafs see Reaves as a potential solution to address their lack of grit. More than a few insiders linked the two sides as the free agent craze began Saturday.
Darren Dreger suggests that Reaves is interested in playing for the Maple Leafs and could sign for a minimum salary. Plus, Reaves’ fun personality could make him an instant fan favorite and open up endorsement opportunities in Toronto. You have to have a fairly loose and relaxed attitude to survive and thrive in Toronto, and Reaves is the type of player that will perform well, potentially taking some of the focus off the bigger stars. David Pagnotta of the fourth period wrote, “The Maple Leafs will be looking to add some size and toughness via free agency. One player is at the top of the list: Ryan Reeves.”
Reeves’ former team Minnesota Wild would have liked to bring him back, but their tight salary cap situation makes it difficult. The Leafs are exploring options to strengthen their final six players, and Reaves is being considered, along with Austin Watson and possibly Miles Wood.
Reaves offers intangibles like papers
The previous season, Reeves played for the New York Rangers and Minnesota Wild, recording five goals and ten assists in 73 games. He ranks 25th in hits per 60 minutes played in the NHL, which indicates his physical presence on the ice.
With exclusive negotiating rights through Saturday, the Wild has the opportunity to participate in contract discussions with Reaves. However, once free agency is opened, the Maple Leafs are expected to make an offer for the veteran winger. The Leafs’ priority is to get a full 23-man roster, and Reaves could play an important role in the team. As long as there is no bidding war for his services, this seems like a deal the Maple Leafs should be able to land.
Having said that, the Ottawa Senators and a few other teams are said to be very interested as well.
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