Vegas Golden Knights: Analyzing Ryan Reaves

Ryan Reaves is arguably the best enforcer in the NHL for the 2018-19 season, but he is also a key offensive contributor for the Vegas Golden Knights.

Most fans see Ryan Reaves as the tough 6’1”, 225-pound enforcer for the Vegas Golden Knights. But what they do not see is a leader, personality and a player developing his skills. Before this season, Reaves has never been able to break 15 points in one season.

Now at 32 years of age, he is having his statistically best season in his entire career with 17 points in 65 games played. In 65 games played in the 2018-19 season, Reaves has scored eight goals, tallied nine assists and racked up 60 penalty minutes.

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During his entire NHL career, Reaves has played 563 games, scored 39 goals, registered 39 assists, and clocked 849 penalty minutes. It is clear to see that he is more or less known for his ability to drop his gloves. But now he is becoming more than a gritty tough guy, he is becoming a true all-around player.

Many may be wondering why Reaves is starting to click in the back half of his career rather than his earlier years. The answer is simple, he is in a system now with Vegas that gives him the opportunity to create offensive chances.

In only 65 games this season, Reaves has had 80 shots on goal, which is the most shot in a season in his career (the second highest being 58 shots in 80 games played).

Vegas seems to be the perfect fit for Reaves as he has become a bit of a local celebrity in the community.  Not only is he a solid player for the Golden Knights, but he is involved in the community by crafting his own beer company called 7Five.  In efforts to promote his beer, Reaves has been spotted bartending local establishments talking to fans and selling his beer.

It is apparent that he is loved both in the community and by his team as he serves as a leader and personality. It will be interesting to see how Reaves continues to develop his skills the rest of the season and into the playoffs. Vegas should be very happy to have a guy like him on their team.