Leafs Enforcer Ryan Reaves Returns to Game Action After Extended Absence

It was a rough season for Ryan Reaves as the long-time veteran enforcer found himself a healthy scratch a lot of the time, and didn't contribute much offensively or defensively; only getting in one fight as his primary role has slowly diminished over the past few seasons and waived at the deadline.

He's a great locker room presence though, and the team might be able to use him in the playoffs, if not for anything but keeping them focused and calm during some very stressful times. But he's still a hockey player at the end of the day, so getting into some action is probably what he wants regardless of where it is.

So it's good news then that Reaves was skating in the Marlies game against the Utica Comets on Wednesday, giving the veteran a chance to help out the junior circuit and bring some extra toughness to the team.

Reaves has been practicing with the team since the end of March, and while head coach John Gruden was unsure about when or if Reaves would find himself in the lineup this season, it's clear that he earned at least one chance to show what he can do.

The 15-year veteran skated in 35 games for the Maple Leafs, registering two points, 28 PIM, a minus-two rating and only one fight; which was a major discussion topic this season given how much money Toronto was paying him.

Things aren't completely over though for Reaves, and he could very well find himself with a spot on the playoff roster given the salary cap is null and void during that time, and if Craig Berube wants to add some extra toughness and intimidation, it may lead to a call-up.

For his career, Reaves has 137 points in 912 games (63G, 74A) with an astounding 1,100 PIM; he spent time with the St. Louis Blues, Pittsburgh Penguins, Vegas Golden Knights, New York Rangers and the Minnesota Wild before settling in Toronto.

Though Reaves may not have a spot with the big club at this point, perhaps a strong showing in the AHL may just be the key to making sure he's on the team come mid-April.