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Flyers Top 5 Lists: Most Feared Metro Fighters

By Colin Newby

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 04: Ryan Reaves #75 of the Vegas Golden Knights is escorted off the ice by linesman Jonny Murray after Reaves received a five-minute major penalty for interference and a game misconduct penalty for a hit on Tom Wilson (not pictured) #43 of the Washington Capitals in the second period of their game at T-Mobile Arena on December 4, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 04: Ryan Reaves #75 of the Vegas Golden Knights is escorted off the ice by linesman Jonny Murray after Reaves received a five-minute major penalty for interference and a game misconduct penalty for a hit on Tom Wilson (not pictured) #43 of the Washington Capitals in the second period of their game at T-Mobile Arena on December 4, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /
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2. Ryan Reaves, New York Rangers

We know that fighting hasn’t completely disappeared from the game because the Rangers based a significant part of their offseason determined to recover from the embarrassment they suffered in fights against Capitals forward Tom Wilson late last season.

Ryan Reaves brings one of the most reputable physical presences in the game. The 6-foot-2, 225 pound winger will play a fourth line role in minimal ice time. However, his value will come as much from intimidation as anything else.

1. Tom Wilson, Washington Capitals

Tom Wilson has earned a reputation as the most polarizing player in the NHL. He is an undeniably excellent hockey player who combines scoring, toughness, and physical to play an irreplaceable role for the Capitals.

He never shies away from controversy and often pushes (or exceeds) the limits of the rule book. Regardless of any distaste you might have for Wilson, all hockey fans need to acknowledge him as a force to be reckoned with on the ice.

Both Nate Thompson and Robert Hagg fought Wilson during a March 2020 matchup in Washington. The Flyers will need to match Wilson’s intensity again in 2021-22 if they hope to neutralize the element of intimidation he brings to the game.

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