Max Pacioretty is listed as day-to-day after suffering an injury during the game. He went down awkwardly, tripping over David Savard’s leg near the slot, and the Maple Leafs’ PR team confirmed he wouldn’t return to the game.

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Pacioretty’s Injury Woes Continue

Pacioretty’s career has been plagued by injuries, particularly in recent years. A major concern has been his Achilles, having dealt with two separate injuries to that area over his 17-season career. It’s unfortunate for any player to face such setbacks, but Pacioretty has been particularly unlucky, often finding himself on the LTIR.

He had been off to a strong start this season, mostly playing on the second line alongside John Tavares and William Nylander. Pacioretty made an immediate impact, including a three-point performance against the Winnipeg Jets. He’s also contributed in other ways, using his physicality to finish checks with authority, a likely influence from playing under Craig Berube.

Next Man Up

Injuries are part of the game, and the Maple Leafs now find themselves needing to adjust. With Pacioretty sidelined, there’s a vacancy on the left wing. Recently, the team activated Connor Dewar from LTIR and temporarily moved Auston Matthews to that spot. Dewar is ready to step in and could be a logical replacement for Pacioretty.

As for filling Pacioretty’s spot on the second line, two players—Bobby McMann and Nicholas Robertson—are the most likely candidates. Both have experience in that role and could make the most of the opportunity, especially since they’ve been playing on the third line recently.