Sheldon Keefe defends Ryan Reaves after benching him twice in three games

Reaves is a horrendous -11 on the season in just 14 games and has been the subject of much discussion in Toronto in recent weeks, with the most common concern being whether or not he can even play anymore. With 2 years remaining on his deal after this season and a $1.35M cap hit, the Leafs aren't exactly in the greatest of spots with Reaves, though many were hoping that this was a deal that would work out for the Buds, given what Reaves brings to the table from a physicality perspective.

Following the 5-4 shootout win over the Flames, Keefe was quick to defend Reaves during his media availability, mentioning that of all the goals against that Reaves has been on the ice for, there isn't one that can be pinned directly on him.

Are we really supposed to believe that these last two benchings are mercy benchings for Reaves? If so, why aren't his linemates seeing any reduced ice time or benchings? David Kampf hasn't been great this season, but I suppose you have to give him the benefit of the doubt as a center, since his responsibilities are much higher than Reaves. Noah Gregor is -5 on the season, but is a penalty killer, so he has some additional utility for the team.

Keefe benching Reaves twice to stop the bleeding and double-shifting the likes of Calle Jarnkrok and William Nylander on that 4th line is saying something about Keefe's level of trust in Reaves. It's sort of a slap in the face from the coach to turn around and defend the player that he's benched twice this week. Just my two cents.