Ex-Maple Leafs enforcer doesn't mince words about Ryan Reaves potentially playing in 2nd round of playoffs

Former Toronto Maple Leafs enforcer doesn't mince words when discussing the possibility of Ryan Reaves playing in the second round of the playoffs.

The Maple Leafs advanced past the Ottawa Senators in Game 6 of their first-round series and will now take on the defending champions Florida Panthers in Round 2. Known for their physical style of hockey, the Cats present a challenge that the Leafs aim to counter with equal intensity throughout the series.

Many fans are questioning whether this is the moment to bring enforcer Ryan Reaves back into the lineup to match the Panthers' strength. However, Rosehill strongly disagrees, arguing that Reaves would not be effective.

He believes that Reaves is out of game shape, having not played recently, and lacks the speed needed for playoff hockey.

"No, no, not in a million years. he's rusty as hell. He hasn't played in a long time. He’s not really fast enough. He’s going to be a big distraction. He’s going to try to run around and bury someone, maybe take a penalty, and you're not going to be able to put your fourth line out there.," Rosehill said.

He added:

"He's just not going to be a factor in this series. The writing is already on the wall; he's not going to go out there and scare anybody. There hasn't been a single fight in the playoffs this whole season... what is he going to go fight like who, like what are you talking about? No, he's not going to be a factor that's already decided, the way they utilized him down the stretch."

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Before being placed on waivers by the Leafs, Reaves racked up two points through as many assists in 35 regular-season games.

Ryan Reaves placed on waivers by Maple Leafs

Before the March 7 trade deadline, Ryan Reaves was placed on waivers by the Toronto Maple Leafs. After going unclaimed, he was reassigned to the Toronto Marlies, the Leafs' AHL affiliate.

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According to reports, the decision was mainly driven by the Maple Leafs' need to free up salary cap space for potential roster additions. Meanwhile, Game 1 of Round 2 between the Leafs and Panthers takes place on Monday at Scotiabank Arena. The puck drops at 8 p.m. ET.

About the author

Abhishek is an NHL writer at Sportskeeda with over 2 years of sports reporting experience and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Delhi. He became a fan of ice hockey after watching NHL fight videos on YouTube, which led to him professionally writing about the sport and his continued interest in all things hockey.

A fan of the Boston Bruins, Abhishek considers their incredible comeback win against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2013 playoffs as the most iconic moment in the NHL. His admiration for the six-time Stanley Cup winners also comes from the team’s storied history, distinctive black and gold uniform and their success in the sport. His all-time favorite NHL players are Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid, for their ability to perform at the highest level consistently.

Abhishek ensures his reporting is fair and balanced by being well-researched in his details, which he expects to be relevant, up-to-date and in line with ethical standards. His specialties are doing detailed match analysis and covering fan reactions.

Abhishek enjoys music, traveling and going on walks with his three German Shepherds in his free time, along with learning about horticulture.

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Edited by Abhishek Dilta