Nurse had just picked up the puck behind his own net and admittedly, he did have his head down. However, Reaves came in looking for trouble and appeared to deliberatly target the defenseman's head with the hit, sending his helmet flying backwards.
The response to the hit was fairly unanimous. Noted Leafs fan Jesse Blake of SDPN commented on the play, saying a suspension would be 'well-deserved' for Reaves.
Similarly, NHL insider Chris Johnston also shared his thoughts on the play, saying that he will most certainly be getting a call from the Department of Player Safety for the hit.
The league is very notorious for getting these things wrong, but the fact that Reaves was ejected for the play is a good indicator that he will actually get suspended this time.
Making matters worse is the fact that Nurse was legitimately injured on the play. They just announced that he will not return to the game.
Reave has been among the worst players in the entire NHL this season, not just for the Leafs. As such, a suspension might actually be a blessing in disguise for the team as they look to establish themselves atop the Atlantic Division.
Of course, it won't help tonight as giving up a major powerplay to the Edmonton Oilers is a recipe for disaster. Be sure to tune in tomorrow to see what Reaves fate will be.