I think tptb recruited a big name and tried to build the show around him, too quickly. They realize this now, and have begun integrating him more slowly into the team this season. And it has been better so far, but I don't necessarily think it's because Ray is 'finding' himself, but more that he hasn't always been at the center of every episode. And I do feel that Sara coming back has restored some of the balance in the writing; they don't have to worry about another character trying to 'fit in'.
I also think they tried too hard to make Ray likable to fans. Sara and Warrick and Nick were all introduced with flaws and had some conflicts in the early years. But they gradually became friends, and formed a cohesive team.
I have nothing against LF, I think he is a great actor. I just don't think he fits the role that the producers envisioned. He's a powerful presence on screen, more specifically on the big screen, and, therefore, would fit better as a more powerful character, IMO.