Ryan Reaves apologizes to Darnell Nurse after being ejected for brutal hit
Toronto Maple Leafs forward Ryan Reaves reportedly apologized to Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse last night after he was ejected for a high hit.
This report comes from NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, who noted that Reaves, "went towards Edmonton room for a face-to-face apology," later on during the game.
Unfortunately, as the insider himself confirmed, the Oilers could not give us an update on Nurse's status after the game. As a result, we are still in limbo with him. However, we do know what will happen with Ryan Reaves.
The NHL Department of Player Safety announced a five-game suspension for Reaves earlier this afternoon. It does feel unfair that we know exactly how long Reaves will be out while Nurse remains a mystery.
That being said, hopefully, Nurse will return to the Oilers lineup sooner than five games from now. The comment about him laughing with the trainers post-game is a good indication that things are not too bad.
This incident has brought back up a larger conversation about Reaves. Many Leafs fans are now wondering if the team should even bother dressing him for the rest of the season.
After all, Reaves has just one point in 16 games this season. Last night's performance alone makes him a negative impact player on the season. Furthermore, he's only getting 8 minutes of ice time per game. Surely someone else would be more useful.
Some fans have even suggested that this suspension might be good for the Leafs. Having a better forward in the lineup on a regular basis could have a positive impact on the next five games.
We will just have to see how the Leafs do without Reaves in the lineup and whether or not he will resume his regular role upon his return.
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