Earlier this week, the New York Rangers traded Ryan Reaves to the Minnesota Wild for a 2025 fifth-round draft pick. The Rangers are giving up a lot for Reaves. He has zero points and no goals in 12 games with the Rangers this season. He has also been healthy scratched seven times.
The Rangers were in Los Angeles for a game against the Kings on Tuesday, and Reaves requested to be traded. After a conversation, the Rangers made a move. GM Chris Drury then moved quickly to make the trade happen.
Reaves was a physical player and was often the first to stick up for teammates after a hard hit. Reaves has been in the NHL for 13 years and has played in 767 games. He’s also recorded 992 penalty minutes.
He is on an expiring contract, but the Rangers were looking to clear up some salary cap space. They also wanted to give Reaves a dignified exit.
The Rangers were hoping to add some offensive firepower. They also wanted to create a stronger locker room. But they were struggling to keep up with faster teams. Reaves is known for his toughness and physicality, but his offense has been lacking.
He has played with Pittsburgh, Vegas, and St. Louis. He had five goals and eight assists in 81 games last season. In 10 playoff games, Reaves had two goals. He has been a healthy scratch in seven of the last eight games.
