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NHL Rumors: Elliotte Friedman hints at Max Pacioretty's future with Maples Leafs
Max Pacioretty dropped in two goals during his preseason debut with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The star left winger looked like he was in midseason form with his brand new team, leaving any doubt as to whether or not he could be an impactful addition to the team.
Elliotte Friedman, the top NHL analyst, saw Pacioretty's two goals and dropped his take on the player who is on a PTO deal.
He said:
"This will not be a PTO, if there was any doubt already."
Pacioretty has dealt with injuries over the last few years. He has played just 139 games in the last four seasons, giving pause to teams who might've been interested in his services. The Maple Leafs weren't that concerned, and so far, at least in the preseason, he's proven them right.
Via The Hockey News, Pacioretty said before the preseason opener:
"It's gonna be a lot of fun. I've said it from Day 1, I have a lot to prove and I'm excited to get out there now and prove it in front of the fans."
With two goals and probably more on the way soon, Max Pacioretty may have already proven himself to Maple Leafs fans.
Craig Berube praises Max Pacioretty
Max Pacioretty was one of the few bright spots in an otherwise disappointing 6-5 loss to the Ottawa Senators. The game went to overtime and the Toronto Maple Leafs fell short, but Pacioretty scored two of their goals.
Head coach Craig Berube said, via Maple Leafs Hot Stove:
"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."
The coach added:
"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."
If Pacioretty converts his PTO to a full-time roster spot, he will make his regular-season debut on Oct. 8 when the season kicks off. Until then, he will have to continue making an impact during the preseason.
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