First look at Max Pacioretty in a Toronto Maple Leafs uniform

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Chris Gerics
September 19, 2024 (12:27)

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Max Pacioretty took the ice at training camp for the first time for the Toronto Maple Leafs since signing a PTO a few weeks ago.

Questions surround the reasoning why the Toronto Maple Leafs signed Max Pacioretty to a PTO, with many wondering if the 35-year old would still be able to hang with the new crop of players.

He's projected to skate with Pontus Holmberg and Nikita Grebenkin as relayed by Jonas Siegel on X:

The full lines for group two are as follows:

Pacioretty took the ice for the first time Thursday as a member of the second group of training camp players, and judging by these clips he looks already primed to have a solid season.

Pacioretty already shows that his speed won't be a question, and his ability to keep up with William Nylander is a testament to his veteran instinct and shows he's much healthier than in previous seasons. If Pacioretty can find his stride much like he is shown in these videos, then there is no doubt he can be a big addition to the team.

Pacioretty is looking to come back after struggling with several injuries the past few years including including during his stints in Carolina and Washington and was also victim of one of the nastiest hits in NHL history courtesy of Zdeno Chara:

The Maple Leafs are hopeful that Pacioretty has progressed past his injuries and fans are also hoping that the 35-year old's legs can handle the pressure of a full 82 game slate.

It also looks like Pacioretty will have to endear himself to Maple Leafs fans in a different way, as he is seen wearing his traditional #67; a number that no doubt stings in the hearts and minds of Maple Leafs fans everywhere. Let's hope maybe this #67 will get rid of the curse.

Pacioretty is excited to be in the blue and white, and seemed a bit taken aback by the media; not having so much attention since back in his Canadiens days.