The 36-year-old spoke for the first time since reportedly signing a three-year deal with the Maple Leafs on Saturday.
The newest member of the Maple Leafs, Ryan Reaves, joined TSN's James Duthie on Free Agent Frenzy to discuss his move to Toronto.
"I'm so excited," Reaves said on Saturday. "Obviously, an original six team, and a team that’s ready to get over the hump, and a lot of fire-power over there. So I’m just looking to add a little swag, a little grit, and bring a cup to Toronto."
The 36-year-old winger has reportedly signed a three-year deal with the Maple Leafs that carries an AAV of $1.35 million. Where he'll fit is yet to be seen, but Reaves clearly doesn't mind the pressure that comes with playing in Toronto.
"I’ll just beat somebody up and all the pressure is over, so no problem." Said Reaves.
One of the biggest questions is why did new Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving go out and sign a 36-year-old enforcer when one of Toronto's biggest needs was depth scoring?
Reaves, in 61 games last season, had five goals and 10 assists with the Minnesota Wild. He also appeared in six playoff games but had no points.
So why does he believe he'll be a fit in Toronto, especially in the playoffs?
"It’s not about the fighting in the playoffs, for sure. That usually completely leaves in the playoffs," Reaves told Duthie. "It’s more about a seven-day grind of running defensemen into the boards and getting in people’s face, and letting them know that every time they go back for that puck, no matter who’s on the ice, you’ve got a chance at getting run.
"And that can wear on you in a seven-game series, so yeah, it’s not about the fighting, just about the wear and tear of seven games."
The 36-year-old, clearly, understands what his role is on the Maple Leafs for the years to come. However, a lot can be said before you enter a team compared to while you're in the group.
One aspect that Reaves isn't worried about, though, is the media frenzy that comes with playing in Toronto.
"I don’t mind the microphones and the cameras," he said. "As long as the tarp’s off, we’re selling the game here, so no problem."
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