"As long as I'm moving my feet, I think I can fit in with them": Max Pacioretty makes feelings about getting in to Leafs' second lineup crystal clear

By Ankit Kumar

Modified Oct 29, 2024 16:36 GMT

Max Pacioretty’s promotion to the Toronto Maple Leafs’ second line proved successful in their 6-4 win over the Winnipeg Jets. Playing alongside John Tavares and William Nylander, the 35-year-old forward showed his ability to fit in well. He contributed three assists, helping the line create more scoring opportunities.

After the game, Pacioretty explained his approach.

“I knew I had to bring my A-game,” he said. “It’s just easy to play with those guys. As long as I’m moving my feet, I think I can fit in with them.”

This focused approach paid off. Early in the game, Pacioretty set up Tavares for a tap-in, giving the Leafs a 1-0 lead.

Tavares appreciated the line’s performance, noting their good pace and pressure on Winnipeg’s defense.

“I think it's just the pace, just the way we were able to get on top of them and cause turnovers, and just being connected,” Tavares said, per NHL.com.

Nylander followed up with a goal in the first period. He praised Max Pacioretty’s setup on Tavares’ goal, saying it helped build their momentum.

“Great play by (Pacioretty) on the first goal to get us going,” Nylander said. He added that the line’s chemistry was strong, as they “just meshed together off the hop.”

Pacioretty’s addition to the Leafs’ power-play unit also brought new energy. Though the power-play line didn’t score, it looked stronger and better organized.

The Leafs hope Max Pacioretty can stay healthy for 60-65 games this season. If he keeps up this level of play, he might end up with even more ice time.

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Max Pacioretty, along with Nylander and Traveres, dominated the Jets

The Toronto Maple Leafs' second line led in their 6-4 win over the Winnipeg Jets, ending the latter team's eight-game winning streak. John Tavares scored three goals, helped by Max Pacioretty and William Nylander, who each added key assists.

Tavares opened the scoring by tapping in a pass from Pacioretty. Nylander then made it 2-0 with a shot from the slot, assisted by Pacioretty.

Matthew Knies scored quickly in the second period, making it 3-0 by putting in a rebound. Morgan Rielly added to the lead with a wrist shot, assisted by Nylander and Pacioretty, making it 4-0.

Winnipeg’s Kyle Connor scored twice, narrowing the gap, but Tavares responded with another goal, making it 5-2.

Winnipeg kept pressing, but Tavares sealed the game with an empty-net goal, completing his hat trick for a 6-4 final. The second line’s strong passing and quick pace were key to Toronto's win.