NHL Suspends Leafs Forward Ryan Reaves After Predatory Hit to Oilers Darnell Nurse

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Liam McCormick
November 17, 2024 (2:30 PM)

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The NHL has officially suspended Ryan Reaves for a total of 5 games, according to a statement from the Department of Player Safety.

In last night's game between the Oilers and Leafs, Reaves came in with speed against Nurse coming around the Oilers net, and delivered a forceful check to the head of Nurse. The Oilers defenceman left the game with injury.

The Department of Player Safety explained that Reaves' hit fully satisfied the conditions for an illegal check to the head, warranting the supplemental disciple.

»First, the head is clearly the main point of contact, as Reaves' shoulder makes direct and forceful contact with Nurse's head

Second, the head contact on this check is avoidable. Reaves mistimes this play missing his core and making his head the main point of contact.»
- NHL Department of Player Safety

Additionally, Player Safety pointed to the injury sustained by Darnell Nurse on the play and Reaves' history of suspensions as their reasoning for a 5 game sentence.

Reaves was given only a virtual hearing, in which the maximum length of suspension is 5 games. Many fans thought Reaves should have had an in-person hearing for a suspension more than 5 games.

Darnell Nurse immediately left last night's game after the hit, leaking from a cut in his head and wobbling while trying to get up. He needed to leave anyway for stitches, but concussion spotters also likely kept Nurse out for the rest of the game.

Thankfully, the Oilers released the first update last night on Nurse's condition. Nurse was alert and joking with trainers, a positive sign for his recovery and attitude.

The Oilers are already struggling on the blue line this season, so losing Darnell Nurse for any amount of time will be a major blow to Edmonton. Fans may not love him for turnovers, but he plays over 20 minutes a night.

The hit by Reaves was completely senseless, predatory, and with intent to injury. It deserved a minimum of a 5 game suspension, but really, hits like this should be out of professional hockey by now. Hopefully, Reaves learns his lesson from this scary hit and the punishment.