Craig Berube on inserting Ryan Reaves for the Leafs' matchup vs. Matt Rempe and the Rangers: "Reavo in the lineup maybe deters him from being as physical as he has been -- or their whole team, for that matter"

Head coach Craig Berube discussed his decision to bring Ryan Reaves back into the lineup ahead of the game against the New York Rangers. He emphasized Reaves' physical presence as a counter to Rangers' tough players like Rempe. Berube mentioned the significance of Reaves in maintaining physicality and altering the opposing team's game plan. Additionally, he commented on Auston Matthews, assuring that Matthews’ energy levels were fine despite concerns over his recent performance, praising his ability to create scoring chances despite a lack of goals.

"Reaves could deter opposing players from being overly physical, which is why I decided to put him in the lineup tonight," said Berube.

"Auston Matthews' energy levels are good, and while he hasn't scored recently, he is creating chances," Berube explained.

"Rempe is a physical player and I wanted Reaves in there to match that intensity," Berube remarked about the lineup changes.

"When facing a guy like Ryan Reaves, there's always going to be some hype, especially with the Maple Leafs playing tonight," Berube noted.

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