"Wouldn't even make eye contact": Jay Rosehill makes big claim about Ryan Reaves ignoring Matt Rempe in latest Leafs-Rangers clash

By Abhishek Dilta

Modified Oct 22, 2024 04:42 GMT

In Monday's segment on The Leafs Nation's "Leafs Morning Take," former Maple Leafs enforcer Jay Rosehill shared his thoughts on Ryan Reaves opting to not drop the gloves against Matt Rempe during the recent Leafs-Rangers clash.

Last season, Reaves and Rempe engaged in an exciting heavyweight clash that left fans eager for a repeat this season. However, despite Rempe's attempts to provoke Reaves during their recent matchup, the Leafs enforcer chose not to engage in a fight.

Rosehill revealed that Rempe approached Reaves several times but received no acknowledgment, which left him puzzled.

"The Reavo-Rempe man, I've had some info that Rempe was absolutely coming after Reavo and coming to get that thing underway. I thought it was going to happen for sure and I found out afterwards that Rempe said 'I've asked him several times and he acted like I didn't exist and wouldn't even make eye contact', and you saw that with Wi-Fi as well, Game 1."

Rosehill expressed confusion over Reaves' reluctance to engage in fights, particularly in moments that could have fired up the team.

"...Just doesn't seem to be happening, and in both games where you could've used one, right? You know when you're down and looking for some life, that's a good way to do it. And he doesn't seem to be too interested so far this year, which makes me kinda scratch my head. But, not coming down on Reavo or anything yet, just curious as to why not in those games where it could've benefited your team," Rosehill added.

Hockey fans will be keeping an eye on whether Ryan Reaves will eventually step up in the physical aspects of the game as the season progresses.

Ryan Reaves career fights

Ryan Reaves has built a formidable reputation over his 15-year NHL career as one of the toughest players to ever take to the ice.

Throughout his time in the league, he has dropped the gloves more than 75 times, according to Hockey Fights. During his tenure with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Reaves recorded seven fighting majors in the previous two seasons including a notable encounter with fellow enforcer Matt Rempe.

However, this season, Reaves has yet to drop the gloves. It will be interesting to see if that changes when the Leafs face off against the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday.