Its safe to say that Ryan Reaves has struggled significantly to start the year. He has been on the ice for 11 goals against, without being on for one goal for. His lack of speed has given opponents way too many opportunities while only averaging 8 minutes in ice time a game, a figure that has been on the decline since the start of the year.
While Reaves does provide an element of toughness to the Leafs lineup, at this point in the season it has yet to be a difference maker. He has fought twice this year, both in the first few games. This toughness may come in handy later in the season or during the playoffs.
What's worse for Reaves is that the Leafs' fourth line looked the best they have all season during the game he was scratched. Bobby McMann stepped into the lineup in his place, and looked good all night, effectively lifting the fourth line out of its slump.
This could be bad news for Reaves as he now has to fight for his position in the lineup against a more skilled and faster Bobby McMann. Where the Leafs need toughness in the lineup, though, Reaves will still have his opportunity.
