Ryan Reaves, known as one of the NHL’s most colorful personalities, has taken an unexpected step by calling out his own fans.
Last season was one of the toughest in Reaves’ long career as an enforcer, with rumors circulating that the team was considering moving on from him during the off-season. While Reaves continues to bring a strong physical presence on the ice and is ready to face the toughest opponents, the fast pace of the modern game seems to be catching up with him.
Despite this, the Toronto Maple Leafs still have him slated for the fourth line as they enter a pivotal 2024/25 season, aiming once again for the Stanley Cup, which has eluded them for 57 years. If Reaves can deliver the physicality needed, especially in the playoffs, he could quickly become a fan favorite. However, ahead of the regular season, he made headlines for a different reason—criticizing Leafs fans on the Spittin’ Chiclets podcast.
Reflecting on his struggles last season, Reaves admitted, “It was hard for me at the beginning of the year because I was playing like s**t. When you’re not performing here, the media jumps on you, and the fans—who are sitting in their parents’ basement—they’re jumping on you.”
While Reaves acknowledged the criticism was warranted due to his performance, his jab at Leafs fans as basement dwellers was an overgeneralization. Most fans, given Reaves’ character, are likely to shrug it off, but if his on-ice performance falters again, the criticism could resurface. On the other hand, strong play would likely make fans forget about the remark.
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