Ryan Reaves Sends a Clear Message to Arber Xhekaj

In a fiery debut as a Toronto Maple Leaf, Ryan Reaves went toe-to-toe with Arber Xhekaj. The face-off was intense with both sides trading powerful blows. However, Xhekaj managed to gain an edge as the fight progressed. Reaves, who isn't known to lose fights frequently, certainly took note of this rare loss.

In a follow-up interview, Reaves made it clear that this confrontation was far from over for him. Sports journalist Luke Fox captured Reaves' sentiments in a tweet, highlighting that Reaves is eagerly looking forward to a rematch. "We play them two more times," said Reaves, indicating he's ready for round two. Fans will need to circle March 24th on their calendars, as that's the next scheduled game between the Leafs and the Habs. It's a date neither Reaves nor Xhekaj is likely to forget.

But the interview revealed more than just Reaves' fighting spirit. Ryan also had input in the selection of the new goal song for the Leafs, and he's also been given control over the locker room playlist before games. Far from just a fighter, Reaves is turning out to be an essential part of the team's culture, both on and off the ice.