Toronto Maple Leafs forward Ryan Reaves has been handed a five-game suspension for an illegal check to the head of Edmonton Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse. The incident occurred in the second period of the Leafs’ 4-3 overtime win over the Oilers on Saturday night. While the hit was clearly illegal, the length of the suspension is mainly due to Reaves’ history as a repeat offender, having been suspended multiple times in his NHL career.

However, the suspension is unlikely to harm the Leafs, as Reaves has been underperforming this season. Despite being dressed regularly by Coach Craig Berube, he is often seen as one of the weakest links on the team. Ironically, this suspension could benefit the Leafs by forcing them to ice a stronger lineup for the next five games.

Reaves has accumulated just one assist in 16 games this season, and the Leafs have performed significantly better when he is off the ice. With a 40% Expected Goals rating while Reaves is on the ice, the team is outshot, out-possessed, and out-chanced. Though he is thought to offer an “intimidation factor” that supposedly protects the Leafs’ stars, the enforcer role is outdated, and the team would be better off utilizing a player who can contribute offensively.

Last season, Reaves’ ice time resulted in a negative goal differential, and in the playoffs, his presence contributed to early goals against in losses. As a 37-year-old who struggles to keep up with the pace of the game, Reaves’ penalties have become more of a liability than an asset.

With Reaves missing upcoming games against Utah, Florida, Tampa, Chicago, and Nashville, the Leafs should consider moving on from him. He makes more than the league minimum, so demoting him in favor of a more productive player, like Alex Steeves, would offer salary cap savings and improve the overall lineup. With too many fourth-liners already on the roster, this suspension could ultimately be a blessing in disguise for Toronto.

In conclusion, while it’s rare for a suspension to benefit a team, this one could help the Leafs field a better squad moving forward.