Ryan Reaves states that Maple Leafs won't be pushed around

“I’m pretty loud. It’s not going to be a quiet room anymore, I’ll tell you that much,” Reaves said during a media availability at the Toronto Maple Leafs’ annual golf tournament on Monday. “I come in pretty hot. I tend to just chirp people right away and just gauge their reaction. I don’t really shy into it.”

Reaves was an unrestricted free agent this past summer and recently signed a three-year, contract with the organization at an AAV of $1.35M.

Reaves isn’t the only player with grit and tenacity present within his game who was signed by new Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving this summer. Max Domi and Tyler Bertuzzi were brought into the fold to help offensive production but also bring some “piss and vinegar,” as the general manager expressed after signing them to deals.

“They both have a lot of skill, too. But maybe something this team has been missing is a little bit of grit and I think those guys fit the mood of what we need here,” Reaves said of his new teammates. “They’re exactly what was needed, for sure.” 

The veteran winger was signed to help stand up for his teammates and bring a spark to the lineup, when possible, with his physical play. He might not play every night, but the expectation is he’ll make his presence known.

The 36-year-old was asked about scenarios like the one that occurred for the Maple Leafs in Game 5 of the second round during the 2023 Stanley Cup playoffs. Florida Panthers defenseman Radko Gudas was seen celebrating in the face of Maple Leafs goaltender Joseph Woll seconds after Nick Cousins scored the overtime goal that eliminated Toronto from the playoffs.

“Oh, I hope he tries that,” Reaves said to a bunch of laughs regarding Gudas. I think it’d be interesting, it would be fun. I doubt there’s going to be any of that here.”