"Anyone else getting sick of this thug and his cheap shots": NHL fans irate with Ryan Reaves for slamming Brendan Smith into boards
NHL fans are upset with Toronto Maple Leafs forward Ryan Reaves after he slammed Dallas Stars defenseman Brendan Smith into the boards during Wednesday’s game in Dallas. The incident happened in the third period with 11:15 remaining while Smith was defending a shot from Reaves.
Sportsnet shared the video post on X (formerly Twitter), stating,
"Ryan Reaves getting in on the forecheck. Catch the rest of the game on Sportsnet."
Following Sportsnet's post on X, NHL fans quickly began reacting to the incident involving Ryan Reaves. One user criticized Reaves for his "cheap shots," calling him the "worst player in the league" while others accused the Leafs of getting away with dangerous plays.
"Anyone else getting sick of this thug and his cheap shots. He will never learn. Get him out the league," one fan said.
"WOW what a massive play by the worst player in the league!," another fan commented.
"That’s boarding but Maple Leafs get away with everything," one X user said.
The hit was seen as dangerous by many. Some fans said Reaves could have finished his check more responsibly. Here are a few more reactions from fans on X.
"Reavo being dirty again, and leafs fans gonna say it’s the star’s fault," a fan said.
"That’s so dangerous man, you can finish your check and pin the opponent on the wall, instead of shoving him headfirst into the boards when he has 0 opportunity to protect himself," a fan commented.
"Absolute garbage hit. It's sort of a travesty he's allowed to play semi regularly," a fan tweeted.
Ryan Reaves' 900th game resulted in Maple Leafs' 5-3 win over Stars
Despite the controversy over Ryan Reaves' physicality, the Toronto Maple Leafs won 5-3 against the Dallas Stars. Toronto's offensive depth, especially from Max Domi's line, and a solid performance from goaltender Joseph Woll helped the Leafs overcome an early deficit.
Nylander, Domi, Nick Robertson and Bobby McMann all contributed offensively, while Woll made 36 saves. The Leafs secured their fourth win in five games. The win was also important for Reaves, who played his 900th career game and recorded six hits in his usual physical style.
Max Domi took to Instagram to congratulate his teammate, posting a story with the caption:
"900 matches for the big bro! Congratulations @reevo7five what an accomplishment."
Despite the team's celebration, Reaves' aggressive play remains a point of contention among the NHL fans.