In a transaction completed on July 10, 2025, the Toronto Maple Leafs have finalized a trade sending veteran forward Ryan Reaves to the San Jose Sharks. In return, the Maple Leafs acquire defenseman Henry Thrun. This move sees two teams with differing needs exchange assets, marking an interesting shift in roster composition for both clubs.
Reaves Heads to San Jose
Ryan Reaves, aged 38 at the time of the trade, concludes his tenure with the Toronto Maple Leafs after two seasons. Known primarily for his physical game, ability to deter opponents, and energy he brings to the locker room, Reaves played 84 games in the blue and white. His offensive contributions were minimal, registering just two assists in 35 games during the 2024-25 season.
The San Jose Sharks, undergoing a significant rebuild, bring in Reaves seemingly to add a specific element to their group. Sharks General Manager Mike Grier expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, highlighting Reaves` energy, personality, physical play, and toughness. Grier noted Reaves` history with winning teams and cited his positive impact on previous clubs, including Grier`s own time with the Rangers organization. For San Jose, Reaves represents more than just a player; he`s a veteran presence intended to help shape the team`s identity and provide protection.
One could perhaps observe with a touch of irony that while Toronto has often been perceived as needing more “grit,” they`ve now traded away one of the league`s premier enforcers. Hockey operates in cycles, however, and this move suggests Toronto`s focus may be shifting or that Reaves` specific role no longer aligned with their strategic direction for the 2025-26 season.
Thrun Joins the Maple Leafs
Coming to Toronto is Henry Thrun, a 24-year-old defenseman. Thrun brings a different profile compared to Reaves. He played 60 games for the Sharks in the 2024-25 season, contributing two goals and 12 points while averaging over 17 minutes of ice time per game. Drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in the fourth round of the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, Thrun`s path to San Jose involved a 2023 trade where the Sharks sent a third-round pick to acquire him.
In his young career, Thrun has appeared in 119 NHL games, accumulating five goals and 25 points. While not an offensive powerhouse, he provides depth on the blueline, an area teams consistently look to reinforce. For the Maple Leafs, acquiring Thrun adds a younger, mobile defenseman with NHL experience. This suggests Toronto may be prioritizing defensive depth and potential over the specific physical presence Reaves offered at forward.
Analysis: A Study in Contrasts
This trade serves as a clear illustration of teams addressing distinct needs. Toronto, perhaps seeking to allocate a roster spot and salary towards a different forward type or simply bolstering their defensive corps, moves on from an aging, impactful but non-scoring veteran. They acquire a younger defenseman who can step into an NHL lineup and potentially grow with the team.
San Jose, conversely, targets a player who can immediately bring a desired intangible: toughness and veteran leadership. In a rebuilding environment, adding a respected figure like Reaves, even for a potentially limited time, is a strategic choice aimed at establishing a culture and protecting younger players. It`s a classic “grit for potential” exchange, reflecting the different stages these two franchises are currently in.
Only time will reveal the full impact of this transaction, but for now, the Toronto Maple Leafs add a blueliner in Henry Thrun, while the San Jose Sharks welcome the formidable and experienced presence of Ryan Reaves.
