Pacioretty left Tuesday’s game against the Columbus Blue Jackets with a lower-body injury while Minten missed Leafs training camp with a high-ankle sprain.
Ahead of their matchup against the St. Louis Blues on Thursday, the Toronto Maple Leafs held practice at Scotiabank Arena. Among those not participating was veteran forward Max Pacioretty, who left Tuesday’s game against the Columbus Blue Jackets with a lower-body injury – not returning for third-period action.
Although there were not any signifiers that pointed to the 35-year-old’s departure, it was confirmed that he would not return for the final frame. Post-game, head coach Craig Berube stated the club would “know more tomorrow,” uncertain of how serious the injury was at first glance. Following the Leafs’ practice on Thursday, Berube provided a brief update, stating that Pacioretty was deemed “day-to-day."
Meanwhile, Fraser Minten, who has been recovering from a high-ankle sprain, returned to practice in a grey extras jersey on Thursday, signaling progression in his rehabbing.
The 20-year-old prospect sustained the injury during a rookie game against the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre last month, just days before training camp officially opened. The high-ankle sprain kept Minten sidelined for the entirety of Toronto’s training camp, an opportunity to potentially compete for a roster spot with the Leafs as he did in 2023.
Following practice, Berube acknowledged how difficult the timing was for the full-time first-year pro.
“He’s been good. I think it was hard on him because, you know, getting hurt in a rookie game and that early in camp and not being able to participate in a main camp and things like that was difficult for him,” Berube explained. “He’s a first-year pro and ready to go. But, again, injuries happen, it’s hard, and nobody’s happy about it. But you’ve got to deal with it, and he’s done it in the right way. He’s got a real good head on his shoulders, this guy.”
“He’s been working hard. I see him all the time, you know, with the room and everything, and it's great to see him back on the ice. He’s going to be a good player, you know, and looking forward to getting him back and playing games.
When Minten returns from injury, it is expected the former second-round pick (38th overall) will start his season with the Toronto Marlies in the American Hockey League (AHL)
