Ryan Reaves addressed his recent trade to the San Jose Sharks while reflecting on Mitch Marner leaving the Toronto Maple Leafs during a podcast appearance. The Maple Leafs sent Reaves to San Jose in exchange for defenseman Henry Thrun as the Sharks sought to meet salary cap requirements. Reaves had previously spoken out in support of Marner’s decision to depart Toronto.
Shortly before being traded, Reaves expressed understanding of Marner’s choice on the Cam and Strick podcast, emphasizing Marner’s dedication and the natural timing for a change.
“Mitchie earned the right to go wherever he wants. He’s dedicated a lot of his career to Toronto,” Reaves said, via NHL.com. ” (Marner was) A hometown guy. He’s poured everything he had into it. Sometimes it’s just time to move on.”
—Ryan Reaves, NHL Player
Despite speculation connecting his comments about Marner’s departure to his own trade, Reaves dismissed any such link when speaking on Thursday.
“Yeah, that had nothing to do with that,” Reaves said.
—Ryan Reaves, NHL Player
After signing a three-year deal with Toronto in 2023 to add physicality to their fourth line, Reaves faced obstacles including injuries and shifts in the roster, which limited his ice time. Eventually, he was waived and reassigned to the AHL, marking the first time in 15 years he played at that level. Though challenging, Reaves embraced the situation to stay involved in the game.
“You know, it was tough,” Reaves said, via Sportsnet. “I hadn’t played in the AHL for 15 years now. It’s not somewhere I want to go back to, but that’s the nature of the business … I’d rather go play and be part of something than just kind of be sitting in limbo and doing nothing.”
—Ryan Reaves, NHL Player
Moving to the Sharks presents Reaves with a greater opportunity to return to the ice regularly, and he appreciates being closer to his home in Las Vegas.
Sharks General Manager Shares Expectations for Ryan Reaves
Mike Grier, the San Jose Sharks’ general manager, welcomed Reaves to the franchise, highlighting the veteran’s ability to energize and toughen the young team. Grier praised Reaves’ character and noted their prior experience together when Grier was with the New York Rangers.
“Excited to welcome Ryan (Reaves) to the (Sharks) organization,” Grier said, via NHL.com. “(Revo) will bring energy, personality, physical play, and toughness to our group. He has been a part of many winning teams, and I witnessed (him) first-hand … when I was with the Rangers.”
—Mike Grier, San Jose Sharks GM
Grier also mentioned that Reaves has had a positive influence on teammates by enlivening practices and offering guidance during physical moments, reinforcing his value both on and off the ice.
Reaves’ acquisition supports the Sharks’ efforts to build a competitive and resilient roster, and his presence is expected to add leadership qualities to the emerging group. Observers anticipate that Reaves will contribute meaningful toughness and experience as San Jose continues its campaign.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is Mitch Marner so good?
A. Marner uses his calmness, understanding, and inventiveness to frequently create opportunities for his teammates. This allows them to play inside with plenty of time, space, and speed, putting his opponents on the defensive.
Q. Did Mitch Marner play AAA?
A. When Mitchell was six, he came back to Clarington and tried out for the Novice AAA team. Although he was the top scorer in tryouts, the Clarington coach and officials felt he wasn’t mentally prepared to play. Consequently, Mitch joined the Lindsay Wolves and played for their Novice AAA team instead.