Bad News for Max Pacioretty as Toronto Prepares for Key Match Against the Rangers

Max Pacioretty, who signed a PTO with the Maple Leafs this summer, was expected to contribute some scoring depth and veteran leadership to Toronto's bottom half of the lineup after making enough of an impression to secure a contract. After scoring Toronto's first goal to start the season, the former Montreal Canadiens captain has gradually seen his playing time cut, including missing Wednesday's game against Los Angeles due to injury.

Pacioretty was spotted practicing on Friday with the extra forwards, which could mean he won't be putting on his skates for Saturday night's game against New York. This suggests that Pacioretty may have to wait to play in this one as well.

According to Michael Mazzei's article, "Leafs Practice Notes," Pacioretty's absence from the starting lineup is a sign that he has lost some of Craig Berube's support.

Pacioretty has been as reliable as any player throughout his career, recording nearly equal numbers in goals and assists (331 and 338, respectively). Pacioretty, who has just finished averaging 24 goals with Vegas, is also dependable for playoff assistance, which Toronto sorely needs to win.

With Pacioretty out of the lineup, the Maple Leafs maintained their incredible fire against Los Angeles on Wednesday and showed no signs of slowing down.