The Vegas Golden Knights have announced that they have placed forward Max Pacioretty on injured reserve. In a corresponding move, the team recalled Brandon Pirri from their AHL affiliate Chicago Wolves.
Knights Place Max Pacioretty on Injured Reserve
The injury occurred in Monday Night’s 1-0 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Pacioretty appears to have a lower-body injury after attempting to hit Blue Jackets forward Riley Nash. Pacioretty played some of the game, however, left in the second period and did not return to the game.
The club had already held Pacioretty out of a game on December 14th against the New Jersey Devils for precautionary reasons. They allowed him to play the next night against the New York Rangers, and of course again against the Blue Jackets on Monday. It’s uncertain if the injury sustain against Columbus is the same injury that kept him out of the game against New Jersey.
Pacioretty was acquired from the Montreal Canadiens in September. In return, Vegas sent Tomas Tatar, top prospect Nick Suzuki and a 2nd round pick to the Habs.
In 30 games so far this season, Pacioretty has scored 10 goals and nine assists.
Life without Pacioretty
It’s uncertain how long the Knights will be without their star forward, but placing him on the injured reserve most likely means it will be for a while. The club will look for Brandon Pirri to step up and fill the void left by Pacioretty. Pirri has been on an absolute tear in the AHL this season. He has scored 17 goals and added 24 assists in just 28 games for the Chicago Wolves this season. Pirri figures to slot into Pacioretty spot in the lineup where Vegas hope he will continue his offensive production.
The Golden Knights will play host to the New York Islanders on Thursday Night.
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