"Most nervous I felt in pre-season": Max Pacioretty rates his two-goal pre-season debut in Leafs' OT loss

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified Sep 23, 2024 06:27 GMT

Max Pacioretty rated his two-goal preseason debut as a mix of nerves and excitement. The Toronto Maple Leafs lost 6-5 in overtime to the Ottawa Senators. After the game, Pacioretty said:

"I definitely felt a little nervous to start. It was the most nervous I felt in pre-season since I was 20-years-old."

He credited his linemate, John Tavares, for helping him settle down during the game. Pacioretty said:

"He was always in the right spot... It was a pleasure to play with him tonight."

The Senators began their preseason with a thrilling win against the Maple Leafs. Jan Jenik and Cole Reinhardt had great nights, each scoring four points.

Jenik opened the scoring early in the first period, giving the Senators a 1-0 lead. The Maple Leafs tied the game in the second period with a goal from Matthew Knies. The Senators quickly regained the lead with a goal from Reinhardt, followed by Adam Gaudette’s goal to make it 3-1.

Pacioretty brought the Leafs back within one with a goal early in the third period. Auston Matthews then tied the game on a power play. Pacioretty scored again, putting Toronto ahead 3-2. The Senators responded, with Donovan Sebrango tying the game again. Reinhardt scored for Ottawa, but William Nylander equalized, sending the game to overtime.

In overtime, Carter Yakemchuk scored the winning goal for the Senators, ending a thrilling match. The Senators will look to build on their momentum in their next preseason game.

Craig Berube lauds Max Pacioretty's impressive debut in Maple Leafs preseason loss

After the Maple Leafs fell 6-5 in overtime to the Ottawa Senators in their preseason opener, Craig Berube praised Max Pacioretty's performance.

Pacioretty made a strong debut, scoring two goals and adding an assist. Berube liked his physical play and how he battled for the puck.

"I thought he had a pretty solid game. I know he scored two goals, but he was strong out there. I thought he was physical and strong on pucks. He did a lot of good things," Berube said (via mapleleafshotstove.com).

The coach noted that Pacioretty and the team have areas to improve.

"Overall, he was noticeable to me. He was strong on pucks and physical. There are obviously things he can clean up, like everybody. We have a lot of work to do,” Berube said.