Craig Berube outlines Ryan Reaves' valuable impact in "locker room & bench" of Maple Leafs squad

By Abhishek Dilta

Modified Sep 27, 2024 05:40 GMT

Head coach Craig Berube highlighted Ryan Reaves's significant impact on the Toronto Maple Leafs, particularly in the locker room and on the bench.

Following the Leafs' 2-1 win over the Canadiens on Thursday, Berube lauded the 37-year-old enforcer. Berube noted that Reaves has been known for his physical plays in the league for many years, emphasizing his ability to skate effectively and make contact during forechecking.

He praised Reaves for being defensively responsible and mentioned that the team has utilized him for penalty-killing during the preseason. Berube said (via Maple Leafs Hotstove):

"Reavo has been a good player in this league for quite some time. I couldn’t skate like Reavo. Reavo can get there and make contact on the forecheck. He is an effective guy. He is responsible defensively. We have him killing penalties a little bit in preseason."

Berube underscored Reaves' value as a teammate, stating that players like him are crucial not only on the ice but also in fostering a positive environment in the locker room.

"Again, he is a great teammate. Those are very valuable guys. They are very valuable in the locker room. They’re valuable on the bench and on the ice but also valuable in the locker room," he added.

Ryan Reaves drops gloves during preseason opener

Ryan Reaves dropped his gloves during the preseason opener against the Ottawa Senators earlier this week.

The altercation took place in the second period after Senators defenseman Donovan Sebrango hit Reaves from behind, prompting a fierce reaction from the enforcer.

Reaves confronted Sebrango, visibly displeased with the play from the Sens' young defenseman. Sebrango, meanwhile, showed courage and decided to drop gloves against Reaves.

During the exchange, Reaves landed two heavy blows that sent Sebrango to the ice. Even after the Sens defenseman fell, Reaves continued to assert his dominance, trash-talking through the confrontation.

Ryane Reaves signed a three-year, $4.05 million deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs last year. He's appeared in 49 games, recording six points through four goals and two assists with a plus-13.