The Toronto Maple Leafs are unlikely to pursue buyouts for players Max Domi, Ryan Reaves, and David Kampf. With specific cap hits and partial no-trades complicating matters, the team appears set for the upcoming season. John Tavares is expected to sign a 2-4 year extension, potentially mirroring Joe Pavelski's past contract with the Dallas Stars. Meanwhile, the St. Louis Blues may consider trading Brayden Schenn if they seek to reshuffle their core, but his hefty contract and age could deter offers.

In a highly anticipated matchup, Ryan Reaves of the Toronto Maple Leafs squared off against Mathieu Olivier of the Columbus Blue Jackets in a fiery bout that ignited the game just two minutes in. Reaves was eager for the confrontation, marking his first fight of the season after a prolonged wait. Meanwhile, Olivier, now in double digits for fights this season, landed several punches before Reaves regained his footing. The fight showcased the intensity of the NHL, with referees delayed in breaking up the action.

Olivier has been a standout for Columbus, contributing 17 points this season and leading the team in penalty minutes. Reaves, despite his veteran status and extensive penalty history, had expressed frustration over not finding opponents willing to engage him earlier in the season. His comments prior to this fight highlighted the ebb and flow of momentum that fights can provide, especially when teams are struggling.

Ryan Reaves aimed to engage in a fight with Arber Xhekaj during a recent game, only for Xhekaj to point to the scoreboard, which favored the Montreal Canadiens 3-0 at that moment. However, as the game progressed, the Toronto Maple Leafs rallied to win 7-3. Post-game, Reaves reflected on the incident, suggesting that Xhekaj's actions had consequences, particularly for a younger player challenging someone with his experience. This interaction has sparked discussions across social media platforms, showing the dynamics of respect and the unwritten rules in hockey.

Reaves hasn't fought in a regular season game since April 2024 and noted a lack of opportunities lately, citing the absence of willing opponents in recent matchups. Despite this, he remains confident in his fighting abilities, relying on muscle memory from his extensive experience in the league.

In a heated match-up between the New York Rangers and Montreal Canadiens, enforcers Matt Rempe and Arber Xhekaj engaged in a physical confrontation that highlighted the rivalry between the two Original Six teams. The fight erupted early in the second period after a brief exchange of bumps and pokes, leading to gloves being dropped.

Rempe landed several punches on Xhekaj, who countered effectively before the bout ended with both players on the ice. The fight culminated in a five-minute major penalty for each player, with Rempe receiving an additional two minutes for roughing.

Both fighters have a history of penalty minutes, showcasing their roles as enforcers. This fight marked Rempe's first NHL fight of the year and Xhekaj's fourth this season, underscoring their aggressive playing styles. The game itself was characterized by physicality, with multiple players sent to the penalty box for roughing in the first period.