In a surprising turn of events, Max Pacioretty will be a healthy scratch for the second consecutive game as the Maple Leafs prepare to face off against the New York Rangers on Saturday night. The veteran winger expressed his frustrations, stating, “I’m dealing with it the best I can. Just work. I mean, I’m at this stage of my career for a reason. Would I rather be playing? Of course, anyone would rather be playing. But, at the same time, I know I can help the team even when I’m not playing.”
Head coach Craig Berube addressed the decision, explaining, “We have extra players. Not everybody can play every night. That is the bottom line.” Despite not receiving a specific message from Berube, Pacioretty remains focused on the bigger picture, acknowledging the long season ahead and the potential for a playoff run.
With 13 healthy forwards on the roster, lineup decisions are inevitable. Bobby McMann and Ryan Reaves have also experienced being healthy scratches at the start of the season, highlighting the depth of the Leafs’ forward group. John Tavares, who missed the third game due to illness, is back in action, further complicating Pacioretty’s situation.
Pacioretty, determined to work his way back into the lineup, emphasized his desire to contribute on the ice. “Anyone would be up here talking honestly and [saying] they want to play and feel they deserve to play,” he said. “But, you know, it is what it is … It’s a long season and looking forward to the chance to get back in there.”
As the Leafs prepare to face the Rangers, Pacioretty finds himself on the outside looking in, with Tavares centering a line with Nick Robertson and Pontus Holmberg. Berube has expressed confidence in Holmberg’s abilities but expects a strong performance from him against the Rangers. Unlike Pacioretty, Holmberg’s versatility in playing center and a role on the penalty kill give him an edge in the coach’s eyes.
The tension mounts as the Maple Leafs navigate a roster filled with talent, with Pacioretty eagerly awaiting his chance to prove his worth and earn a spot back in the lineup. The drama surrounding lineup decisions only adds to the anticipation of the upcoming game against the Rangers, as the Leafs aim to continue their winning ways with a deep and competitive roster.