Veteran Toronto Maple Leafs Players in Danger of Losing Their Roster Spots

Other Vets Whose Jobs Are In Jeopardy

Signing Ryan Reaves to a long-term deal was a confusing, inexplicable move. His start to last season was disastrous.

He clearly wasn't and isn't an NHL player and yet he somehow got into 49 games and five playoff games last season. In two of those playoff games his poor play led directly to the opening goal twice.

Since Berube played a similar role to Reaves during his NHL career, he might have a soft spot for the bruising forward and what he brings to the team. Then again, he's a professional who is likely able to avoid. making emotional decisions.

Reaves may bring positive things to the team off the ice, but that's impossible to measure.

On the ice though, players of his type and their influence on a game's outcome are minimal in today's NHL. Reaves does not contribute to special teams.

Reaves' situation seems destined to follow that of Wayne Simmonds. He likely plays in a handful of games (25-35) and spends most of his time as a healthy scratch or sent to the Toronto Marlies if salary cap space is needed.

The Leafs would be better served with Cowan, Minten, or a deserving Marlie such as Alex Steeves playing over Reaves.

Reaves was an embarssingly bad contract and it made no sense at the time. It makes even less sense now.

Another player whose job is likely in jeopardy is Calle Jarnkrok. Like Reaves and Kampf, he makes too much for what he does, and his age and injury history make him an obvious candidate to move on a team with too many wingers and a bunch of young players looking to take his minutes.