The San Jose Sharks have traded defenseman Henry Thrun to the Toronto Maple Leafs in return for winger Ryan Reaves. This move, completed recently, aims to address both teams’ needs as the Sharks seek veteran presence and the Leafs look to bolster their defensive depth. The Henry Thrun trade Sharks Maple Leafs deal reflects strategic adjustments ahead of the new NHL season.
Details Behind the Player Swap and Contract Considerations
Ryan Reaves enters the final year of a three-year contract carrying a $1.35 million salary cap hit. The Maple Leafs were motivated to move his contract to create more cap space, identifying the Sharks as a suitable trade partner. In exchange, Toronto receives Henry Thrun, who is also in the last year of his contract but with a lower cap hit of $1 million. This $350,000 difference offers Toronto cap relief while providing additional depth beyond their core seven defensemen.
Thrun’s ability as a skilled puck-mover enhances the Leafs’ defensive lineup, an area where they have sought improvement. Conversely, San Jose is ready to absorb extra salary and gain a seasoned player who offers energy and physicality to support their young roster.
Sharks’ Perspective on Adding Reaves’ Experience and Grit
San Jose Sharks General Manager Mike Grier expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, emphasizing Reaves’ valuable attributes.
“We’re excited to welcome Ryan to the organization,”
Grier said.
“He will bring energy, personality, physical play and toughness to our group. He has been a part of many winning teams, and I witnessed firsthand the positive impact he can bring to a group when I was with the Rangers.”
Reaves is known for his role as an enforcer and veteran presence, qualities the Sharks hope will balance their youthful core. While his playing time with the Leafs was limited to 35 games mostly as a healthy scratch, his experience in team locker rooms and physical style remain valuable assets.
Performance and Contributions of Both Players
During the latest season, Reaves managed just two assists and did not participate in the playoffs for Toronto. He also spent some time with the AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies, scoring one goal in three games. Meanwhile, Henry Thrun completed his first full NHL season with the Sharks, recording two goals and 10 assists across 60 games, contributing 12 points from the blue line.
Implications for Both Teams Moving Forward
This trade offers the Maple Leafs enhanced defensive depth and a puck-moving defenseman in Thrun to complement their existing lineup. For the Sharks, acquiring Reaves adds toughness and veteran leadership, potentially improving their physicality and on-ice presence as they develop their young core. Both teams aim to strengthen specific roster needs, making this an impactful exchange as the season progresses.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Henry Thrun graduate from Harvard?
A. Once the Sharks’ season ended, Thrun went back to Harvard to complete his bachelor’s degree, majoring in both economics and psychology. He netted his first professional goal on January 9, 2024, during a 7–1 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs, scoring the only goal for the Sharks.
Q. How good is Henry Thrun?
A. He ranked fifth in ice time among defensemen during penalty kills, with 70 minutes and 21 seconds. The only defensemen with more time were the experienced players: Mario Ferraro, Ceci, Jake Walman, and Rutta. Thrun also held the fifth position for overall ice time on the team.