Edmonton Oilers

Reaves Takes Surprising Step After Nurse Hit, Oilers Still Upset

During the Edmonton Oilers and Toronto Maple Leafs game, Ryan Reaves laid out Darnell Nurse with a questionable hit. What should happen now?

by
Old Prof
November 17, 2024

Last night, Ryan Reaves of the Toronto Maple Leafs laid a controversial hit on Darnell Nurse that sidelined the Edmonton Oilers defenseman during a heated game. Even though one NHL insider revealed Reaves took a big step after the hit to make things right, Oilers players, including Adam Henrique, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and head coach Kris Knoblauch, were vocal in condemning the play.

“Ryan Reaves went towards Edmonton room for a face-to-face apology during the third period,” Elliotte Friedman posted on social media. Seemingly proving that Reaves knows he messed up and was too aggressive on the hit that targeted Nurse’s head, it wasn’t revealed if Nurse was open to having a conversation with the Maple Leafs forward.

What did seem clear from the statements made by other Oilers was that, apology or not, there was no need to deliver that kind of hit when Nurse was in the position. The NHL appears to have agreed as Reaves is scheduled for a hearing that will likely lead to a suspension of five games or less.

A Dangerous Play: Henrique Speaks Out

The Oilers’ Adam Henrique did not mince words when discussing the incident. He stressed that NHL players have the skill and split-second decision-making ability to avoid dangerous hits. “We’re professional athletes,” Henrique noted. “You know when a guy is in a vulnerable spot.” He highlighted that the Maple Leafs Reaves should have made a better choice to protect Nurse from harm.

Henrique’s comments underscore the fine line between physical play and recklessness. Henrique’s onus is on players to ensure their actions don’t endanger their opponents, especially when the risk of head injuries is high.

Nugent-Hopkins: A Teammate’s Concern

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins shared his thoughts on witnessing Nurse leave the ice after the hit. He worried about his Oilers’ teammate’s well-being, noting the immediate concern in the locker room following such incidents. “There’s concern about our teammate,” he said. “You’re worried about his well-being.”

Nugent-Hopkins’ reaction reflects the camaraderie and protective instincts of teammates. His comments also highlight the emotional toll these events can take on a team, potentially affecting morale and focus in the aftermath.

Coach Kris Knoblauch Calls for Accountability

Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch added his voice to the chorus of criticism, describing the Maple Leafs Reaves hit as “unnecessary.” While Knoblauch did not speculate on whether the NHL’s Department of Player Safety would suspend Reaves, he emphasized that hits like these have no place in the game.

Knoblauch’s remarks suggest that while physicality is inherent in hockey, limits must be respected. His stance also raises questions about the effectiveness of current NHL rules in deterring dangerous plays.

What Comes Next for Reaves and the NHL?

The hit has sparked a broader conversation about player safety in the NHL. Reaves has a hearing with the Department of Player Safety, and the league’s decision on potential disciplinary action will likely set a precedent. This incident could reignite debates about the adequacy of penalties for head hits and whether the NHL needs stricter enforcement to protect players.

The Oilers’ strong response also reflects a growing demand for accountability. As hockey evolves, balancing the game’s physical nature with the need to prevent injuries remains a critical challenge.

The Bottom Line: A Turning Point for Player Safety?

The fallout from Reaves’ hit on Nurse has reignited concerns about player safety and the NHL’s approach to dangerous plays. The Oilers’ vocal criticism serves as a reminder of the responsibility players have to each other. As the league reviews the incident, the hope is that it will take meaningful steps to minimize such hits in the future.

This moment could prove pivotal in shaping how the NHL handles player safety in the future. Will the league’s actions be enough to deter similar incidents, or will another controversy prompt change? Only time will tell.