Ryan Reaves Suspended Five Games for Headshot

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Ryan Reaves has been suspended for five games without pay following an illegal check to the head of Edmonton Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse during a game on November 16, 2024. The NHL's Department of Player Safety announced the suspension after a disciplinary hearing, which will also see Reaves forfeit $35,156.25 in salary. The incident occurred in the second period, resulting in Nurse sustaining significant injuries and requiring immediate medical attention. Reaves, 37, has now received four career suspensions and has faced scrutiny for his physical playing style throughout his career. Following the incident, Oilers players expressed concerns over the dangerous nature of the hit, emphasizing the need for safer play. Reaves is scheduled to return to the lineup on December 4, 2024.