Toronto Maple Leafs’ Ryan Reaves Speaks Out After Suspension
Ready to Hit the Ice
Ryan Reaves is ready to get back to playing, let’s be clear. The Toronto Maple Leafs forward participated in a full practice on Monday, marking his first action since a two-game suspension for a hit on Oilers’ Darnell Nurse.
"I’m gonna keep playing hard, if not harder now," Proclaimed Reaves after practice. "This is just—you know, part of my game."
Tough Punishment?
While some have questioned whether this suspension warrants his hit. Reaves stands by his game, this also acknowledging the heavy criticism over this hit on Nurse.
"It felt like I led with the shoulder, and that’s kinda how I was trained," Reaves said. “Sometimes it’s a tune-up, sometimes they call it ‘how vicious expletive’ by the media," he added jokingly.
Missing Time Tough, But Family Understands
Missing the last two games was tough for Reaves, who called the experience "frustrating."
However, he received legal advice to avoid speaking during this suspension. As a father of three, "I already told the kids Christmas is canceled,” Reaves joked.
“It’s tough watching the boys play, and missing those games,” said Reaves. “But somehow I think they understand…"
Looking Forward to Playing with Grebenkin
One bright spot for Reaves: He’s eager to finally play with new teammate Nikolai Grebenkin.
"I’ve been watching his highlight reel, so unfortunate to commend him during my first day at camp, ” вышла a startled Reaves, and does not say I work
He added: Grebenkin has skill, good commentator, good voice.
Reeve is ready to bring his signature physical presence back to the Leafs’ lineup. He is an active presence on social media during his suspension. While his physical play comes with controversy, Reaves remains unconcerned.
Reaves and the Leafs resume action on, Reaves’s suspension. Game teams not named.رم
What adjustments, if any, will Ryan Reaves make to his playing style following his suspension?
## Ryan Reaves Speaks Out After Suspension: Full Interview
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the studio, Ryan. It’s good to see you back on the ice after your suspension.
**Ryan Reaves:** Thanks for having me.
**Interviewer:** You participated in a full practice yesterday. How does it feel to be back out there with the team?
**Ryan Reaves:** It feels great. There’s no place I’d rather be than on the ice with my teammates, competing. These last couple of games have been tough to watch from the sidelines.
**Interviewer:** Your suspension stemmed from a hit on Oilers’ Darnell Nurse. Looking back, do you regret the play?
**Ryan Reaves:** It’s never my intention to injure another player. Hockey’s a fast, physical game, and unfortunately, sometimes things happen. I think the league made their decision, I respect that, and now I’m just focused on moving forward.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned playing “harder” moving forward. Can you elaborate on that?
**Ryan Reaves:** (pause) Look, I play a physical game. It’s part of my identity as a player. I need to be smart about it, absolutely. But I’m not going to change my style.
**Interviewer:** Is there anything you’ll be doing differently to adjust your play after this?
**Ryan Reaves:** I’ll always be reviewing the plays and making sure I’m within the rules. Ultimately, I just want to contribute to the team’s success.
**Interviewer:** The Maple Leafs fanbase is certainly happy to have you back. What can they expect from you in these upcoming games?
**Ryan Reaves:** They can expect the same Ryan Reaves they always see: hard-working, physical, and ready to give it my all for this team.
**Interviewer:** Thanks for joining us, Ryan. Welcome back.
**Ryan Reaves:** Thanks for having me.
