Ryan Reaves hits his opponent with a massive open-ice hit
Ryan Reaves reminds the hockey world why he is still one of the most fearful players in the NHL.
In the first period of Wednesday night’s game against the Detroit Red Wings, Reaves delivered a bone-crushing hit to defenseman Filip Hronek, who was skating the puck out of his own end.
Reaves was not punished for the play. Hronek suffered from bloody legs and was able to stay down for several minutes before he was able to skate off with some help from his teammates.
The Red Wings then announced that the 25-year old would not be returning for the contest.
As expected, online debate was divided over the legality and legality of the hit. Some argued that the head was targeted, while others claimed that the primary point of contact was the head.
Others, however, supported the hit as a clean move and were content with the throwback style.
Reaves continued his physical play during the second frame. He forced Gustav Lindstrom into a corner board, prompting a response from Ben Chiarot. Chiarot was tired of Reaves’ antics. Chiarot (listed at 6-foot-3, and 6 foot-2, respectively) engaged in a brief fight before they were separated and given five-minute majors.
Reaves flexed a bicep following the fight, bringing the Xcel Energy Center crowd back to their feet.
Reaves was just inches from the final cherry on his big night. He placed a shot just wide enough to make the net, which would have ended the game.
Frederick Gaudreau would score an empty goal to win Minnesota’s 4-1 victory moments later.
Red Wings panelist Paul Bissonnette, an ex-NHLer, was reportedly the one to blame for Reaves’ motivation on Wednesday. This caused a hilarious exchange live on TV.
Reaves was purchased by the Rangers on November 25 for a fifth round draft pick in 2025. The enforcer had reportedly asked to be moved out of New York and Reaves was thus acquired from them. Reaves, a 15-year-old veteran, has had three assists and 14 penalties minutes in 21 games in 2022-2223.
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