Brad Treliving To Risk Losing Ryan Reaves For Nothing?

The Toronto Maple Leafs made a significant move this summer by securing a deal with veteran enforcer Ryan Reaves. While initial reactions to the deal may have been skeptical, Reaves brings a much-needed level of toughness to the team that has been lacking for quite some time.

Is Reaves Facing Waivers?

Given his $1.35 million average annual value (AAV) contract and the Leafs being right at the salary cap limit, recent reports suggest that Ryan Reaves could potentially face waivers early in the upcoming season. This move is aimed at providing the Maple Leafs with some financial flexibility.

Although there are several players exempt from waivers who could be sent down to the minors, none of them carry the same cap hit as Reaves. Fortunately for the Leafs, many other NHL teams find themselves in a similar salary cap predicament, making it unlikely that Reaves would be claimed if placed on waivers.

A Valuable Presence

While Ryan Reaves may have only recorded 59 goals and 129 points in his 828 NHL games, his contribution goes far beyond mere statistics. He is expected to play a pivotal role on the fourth line for the Maple Leafs in the upcoming 2023-24 season.


Over his 13-year NHL career, Reaves has accumulated over 1,000 minutes in the penalty box. Despite the NHL's shift towards a more skill-oriented style of play, Reaves remains a physical force on the ice. The Maple Leafs are hoping that his physicality will make a significant difference, particularly when the playoffs roll around.

As Read on Maple Leafs Insider - Newly signed Leaf expected to be waived by the Leafs in the coming weeks