Maple Leafs Trade Ryan Reaves to Sharks for Henry Thrun in Strategic Roster Reshuffle

The Toronto Maple Leafs have acquired defenseman Henry Thrun from the San Jose Sharks in exchange for veteran forward Ryan Reaves. Thrun, 24, is entering the final year of a two-year, $2 million contract he signed with the Sharks in July 2024.

In the 2024–25 NHL season, he recorded 12 points (two goals, 10 assists) over 60 games. Thrun, a fourth-round pick by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2019 NHL Draft, brings a steady presence to the Maple Leafs’ blue line, having accumulated 25 points in 119 NHL games to date.

Sharks Gain Toughness, Experience, and Leadership with Addition of Veteran Forward Ryan Reaves

Ryan Reaves, 38, moves to the Sharks with one year remaining on his three-year, $4.05 million deal signed in July 2023. He contributed two assists over 35 games for Toronto last season and did not feature in the playoffs. Despite limited on-ice production, Reaves is known for his physical style and locker room presence.

He expressed enthusiasm about the move, emphasizing his willingness to contribute wherever he is wanted and his excitement to join a new team.

Reaves, a fifth-round pick in the 2005 NHL Draft by the St. Louis Blues, has played for multiple NHL teams, including Pittsburgh, Vegas, and the New York Rangers. Over 912 regular-season games, he has posted 137 points (63 goals, 74 assists), alongside nine points in 113 playoff games.

Sharks general manager Mike Grier highlighted Reaves’ intangible assets, such as physicality, forechecking ability, and leadership, saying these qualities fill a gap in the Sharks’ roster that became evident during last season.

Reaves Brings Veteran Leadership, Energy, and Mentorship to Support Young Sharks Roster

Reaves sees his role in San Jose as more than just a physical presence. He emphasized his intent to bring energy and support to a young Sharks roster, drawing on his past experiences in Vegas and other NHL cities. He believes his veteran voice can help guide younger teammates through the challenges of the regular season and playoffs. His leadership, both on and off the ice, is expected to complement the Sharks’ developing talent.

This trade signals a strategic move for both franchises. The Maple Leafs gain a young, reliable defenseman in Thrun to bolster their depth, while the Sharks address a need for toughness and leadership with the acquisition of Reaves.

Both players bring contrasting but valuable qualities that align with their new teams’ respective goals. As the 2025–26 NHL season approaches, the success of this exchange will be measured not only by on-ice performance but also by the impact each player has in their locker rooms.