Another game, another controversy in the world of professional hockey. This time, the spotlight falls on Ryan Reaves, who has been handed a five-game suspension for a high hit that fans, players, and officials won't soon forget. During a tense matchup between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Edmonton Oilers, Reaves delivered an illegal hit to the head of Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse, an act that has drawn sharp criticism and a suitable penalty from the league's Department of Player Safety.
Reaves’ History of Suspensions
Reaves’ suspension history has resurfaced with this incident, reminding many within the hockey community that this marks the fourth of his career. Notably, it is his third related to high hits, making this latest infraction part of a troubling pattern. The hit itself occurred during the second period, with Reaves delivering a shoulder blow that connected with Nurse's head, rather than his body. This principal point of contact instantly qualified the act as avoidable under league rules that emphasize player safety.
The Immediate Aftermath
In the aftermath of the hit, Darnell Nurse was left unable to continue in the game. His absence was felt acutely by the Oilers, a team for which Nurse has been a key contributor. Over the course of 18 games this season, Nurse has amassed two goals and nine points while averaging nearly 21 minutes on the ice each game. The Oilers, missing his defensive prowess, lost the game to the Maple Leafs 4-3 in a closely contested overtime battle.
The Department of Player Safety commented on the incident, stating, "Reaves closes in on Nurse and delivers a high, hard check that cuts across the front of Nurse’s body, missing his core and picking it his head, making it the main point of contact on his body where such head contact was avoidable."
Financial and Team Implications
Financially, the suspension is costly for Reaves who will forfeit $35,156.25 in salary during the suspension period. Furthermore, his team, the Maple Leafs, will be without him for five games. Reaves, who has only contributed a single assist over 16 games this season and averages just over seven minutes per game on the ice, will look to make a marked impact when he returns. His comeback is slated for December 4th, in a matchup against the Nashville Predators.
Reflections and Reactions
The incident has not only affected Reaves and Nurse but has also stirred emotions among their teammates. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, a colleague of Nurse on the Oilers, expressed his disapproval of Reaves' actions, stating, "It's a dangerous play. [Reaves] has got to know that Nursey doesn't see him coming and choose the right path there, and he doesn't. It's tough to see one of your teammates on the ice like that."
These comments underline a broader concern within the league regarding player safety and the need for stricter enforcement of rules surrounding head hits. Players and fans alike hope that continued vigilance will ensure that such dangerous plays are minimized.
A Lesson and a Warning
As the hockey world turns its eyes towards the upcoming games, this incident will undoubtedly serve as a reminder of the need for discipline and awareness on the ice. Reaves' suspension sends a clear message: high hits will not be tolerated, and repeat offenders will face serious consequences. For the players, it is a call to prioritize safety and sportsmanship equally, ensuring the well-being of all those who take to the rink.