The National Hockey League trade market continues to shape rosters as teams position themselves for present and future success. In a notable transaction finalized on July 10, 2025, the Toronto Maple Leafs and San Jose Sharks exchanged players, with veteran forward Ryan Reaves heading to San Jose and defenseman Henry Thrun joining the Maple Leafs organization.
For the Toronto Maple Leafs, this move marks the end of Ryan Reaves` tenure with the club. The 38-year-old forward, known throughout the league for his physical presence and energy, spent two seasons in Toronto. In the 2024-25 campaign, Reaves appeared in 35 regular-season games, contributing two assists. While his offensive production was limited, his role was primarily defined by toughness and a willingness to engage physically, a specific dimension he brought to the Leafs` lineup.
Moving west, the San Jose Sharks acquire a player specifically sought after by their management. Sharks General Manager Mike Grier highlighted the attributes Reaves is expected to bring to San Jose. “He will bring energy, personality, physical play and toughness to our group,” Grier stated. Emphasizing Reaves` experience on successful teams and his positive influence observed firsthand, San Jose appears to be adding a layer of veteran character and on-ice accountability, perhaps a necessary element for a team undergoing significant transition.
Coming to Toronto is 24-year-old defenseman Henry Thrun. Thrun played 60 games for the Sharks during the past season (presumably 2024-25), accumulating two goals and 12 points. He logged an average of 17 minutes and 31 seconds of ice time per contest, indicating a significant role within the Sharks` defensive structure. Thrun was originally drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in the fourth round in 2019 before his rights were acquired by San Jose via trade in 2023. Across his NHL career to date, Thrun has played 119 games, tallying five goals and 25 points.
Analyzing the Exchange
This trade represents a clear exchange of different player archetypes and potential organizational needs. The Maple Leafs acquire a younger asset in Thrun, a defenseman with recent NHL experience who could provide depth and potentially push for a more prominent role on the blueline as he develops. At 24, he aligns with a younger age curve than the departing Reaves.
Conversely, the San Jose Sharks acquire Ryan Reaves, a player whose impact is measured less by points and more by intangible factors like leadership, physical deterrence, and character within the locker room. For a team in a rebuilding phase, adding a respected veteran voice and a player known for protecting teammates can be perceived as valuable, even if his on-ice minutes are less extensive than Thrun`s.
In essence, Toronto gains a potential defensive piece for the future, while San Jose adds a distinct veteran presence focused on energy and physicality. The exchange highlights the differing priorities and timelines of the two organizations involved. As both players transition to their new clubs, their impact will be watched closely by fans and analysts alike.
