Leafs Forward's Playoff Struggles Prove Why Ryan Reaves Deserves the Final Spot

With the Toronto Maple Leafs needing to set the tone in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, they need to make sure they have the best possible group together in order to take on tough opponents and ensure they don't falter again in their first round match like so many years previously.

So with that being said, perhaps bringing back a familiar face wouldn't be a bad idea.

Since Calle Jarnkrok hasn't really been a factor in previous playoffs before, and with Toronto having a litany of penalty killers, the team might be better suited to add some extra toughness to the roster.

Sure, Reaves isn't going to offer much offense, and while his defense leaves something to be desired, he's not going to play 20 minutes a night, and while he's out there he has one role: Cause havoc.

Whether it's through a fight (which could be a more realistic scenario given the heightened stakes), throwing his weight around, or just not getting in the way will do wonders for Toronto.

Plus, his placement in the lineup isn't just for his on-ice stuff either. Known as a locker room leader who brings a lot of levity and calmness to some seriously stressful situations could be the x-factor in keeping the Maple Leafs focused if things turn sour.

The team waived Reaves ahead of the deadline in order to shore up some cap room for their new additions, but the cap is irrelevant when it comes to the playoffs, so adding him won't affect things financially, and with how little time he has left to win, it's also a kind gesture on behalf of the team.

This season hasn't been his best though. In 35 games Reaves registered only two points (2A) and 28 PIM (one fighting major). Adding 103 hits though in only 7:48 TOI.

But if the Maple Leafs want their playoff roster to have some extra toughness, while also bringing them back the glue that kept the team together?

Time to do the unthinkable: Plug Reaves back in the lineup.