Sheldon Keefe Sends a Strong Message to Ryan Reaves vs the Lightning

The desperate Maple Leafs managed to pull off a clutch overtime victory tonight against the Lightning 6-5. Part of the reason they were able to win the game is thanks to head coach Sheldon Keefe. Keefe made a couple of important moves in this one. First, he pulled starting goalie Ilya Samsonov after he gave up 4 goals on 12 shots. The next move likely came as a surprise to no one.

Ryan Reaves has not just been one of the worst players on the Leafs this year. He's been one of the worst players in the entire league. The fact that he's played every game so far this season is a mark against Keefe. However, benching him tonight was the right decision and it ultimately proved to be effective as his team was able to pull off a come-from-behind victory. The next step for Reaves should be to watch the game from the press box.