Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
Ryan Reaves isn’t done yet, and the 39-year-old still believes he has one more NHL season left in the tank.
His comments showed just how determined the big man is to avoid hanging up his skates for good.
One specific goal is still driving him.
Reaves wants to reach the 1,000-game mark in the NHL.
The veteran, who has recorded 1,137 career penalty minutes, needs only 38 more games to reach that milestone.
“Playing 1,000 games in the NHL would certainly be an honour, especially with the role I’ve had,” he said.
His message to NHL general managers, including Kent Hughes, is clear.
“I trained all summer, and my body feels good.
I just think I’ve got another one in the tank,” he added.
Ryan Reaves refuses to walk away with regrets
Other veterans have told him to play as long as possible to avoid having regrets, and it’s advice he plans to follow.
Reaves has taken that message to heart.
“I don’t want to have that regret.
I think another year would be fun, and being able to say I played at 40 would be fun too.”
The market has remained quiet for him.
He revealed that some teams showed interest this summer, but nothing concrete came from those conversations.
He also understands his situation, and that level of self-awareness deserves respect.
“At my age, I’ll be the final piece of the puzzle for some teams, and I understand that,” he said.
He spent last season with the San Jose Sharks after two seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs and stints with five other organizations.
Over 962 NHL games, Reaves has recorded 66 goals and 74 assists for 140 points. Will a team give him one last dance?
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