Waivers today are going to be interesting. Expect to see at least one team creating some roster/cap flexibility ahead of what could be a larger move.
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Maple Leafs place Ryan Reaves on waivers
Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Mar 6, 2025, 14:20 ESTUpdated: Mar 6, 2025, 14:55 EST
The Toronto Maple Leafs have placed forward Ryan Reaves on waivers, according to multiple sources. Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli was first to report.
Reaves has recorded two assists in 35 games for the Maple Leafs and hasn’t carved out a meaningful role on the fourth line. The 38-year-old signed a three-year contract worth $4.05 million with the Maple Leafs on July 1, 2023. Toronto has controlled just 42 percent of the expected goals when he’s on the ice at 5-on-5, and Alex Steeves, Steven Lorentz, Connor Dewar and Max Pacioretty have all proven to be better fits in a bottom-six role this season.
Servalli reports that at least one team will be using waivers to facilitate a larger move, and the Maple Leafs fit that description, during what’s been an inactive deadline to date. Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving has reportedly inquired about Mikko Rantanen, Brayden Schenn, Brock Nelson and Scott Laughton among other targets.
Toronto is effectively waiving Reaves’ $1.35 million cap hit for the time being, which would come off the books entirely if another team claimed him, an unlikely development at this stage of his career. If Reaves were demoted to the AHL’s Toronto Marlies, after clearing waivers, the Maple Leafs would clear $1.15 million in cap space, The Athletic’s Chris Johnston reports.
Reaves was suspended for five games earlier this season for an illegal hit to the head of Edmonton Oilers defenceman Darnell Nurse.
Toronto needs to make a move to maximize its win-now window, and placing Reaves on waivers is a clever solution that will afford Treliving some agility in trying to strike a deal. Mitch Marner, John Tavares and Matthew Knies all require new contracts so this season may be the best shot at a Stanley Cup, while the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning have both made significant upgrades to their rosters throughout the week.
More to come.
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