The Toronto Maple Leafs have been missing their star forward Auston Matthews for the last few games due to an injury listed as day-to-day. Now, the Leafs may have to juggle the lines once again after Max Pacioretty went down with an injury. He fell awkwardly, tripping over David Savard‘s leg around the slot area. The Maple Leafs public relations team announced that he wouldn’t return to the game.
Maple Leafs F Max Pacioretty will not return to tonight’s game (lower body).
— Leafs PR (@LeafsPR) November 10, 2024
Pacioretty Snake Bitten With Injuries
Pacioretty has had a bad run of injuries, specifically in the back half of his career. One of the most problematic injuries he’s suffered in his career was with his Achilles. Furthermore, he’s suffered two Achilles injuries in his 17 seasons. It’s a shame for anyone to deal with injuries but Pacioretty has had a terrible run and is all too familiar with being placed on LTIR.
Pacioretty was off to a great start this season, playing on the second line most of the time. He’s made a great impact there next to John Tavares and William Nylander, including a three-point game against the league-leaders, Winnipeg Jets. Also, he’s been effective away from the puck too. Pacioretty has been able to showcase his physical side, finishing his checks with emphasis. It’s no secret that playing for Craig Berube might’ve sparked that.
Next Man Up
Like in any team sport, there needs to be a next man up when an injury happens. That situation is no different for the Maple Leafs. With Pacioretty gone for some time, there is a left-wing position available. Toronto activated Connor Dewar from LTIR a few days ago and moved Matthews there for the time being. However, that means that Dewar is ready for action in the NHL, and that would be the sensible replacement for Pacioretty.
In terms of his spot on the second line, that’s a different story. Two players may be the front-runners for that spot and they would be Bobby McMann and Nicholas Robertson. Those are two players who have been in that role before. They could use the extra ice time as they’ve graced the third line lately.
Main Photo Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
