Maple Leafs scratches trying to stay positive amid team playoff hype
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It had to be one of the hardest practices of the season for Max Pacioretty, David Kampf and Ryan Reaves to get through.
No one likes to be an understudy when the curtain is raised on opening night of the playoffs and there’s a buzz in the city. The veteran trio have to suck it up for now.
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“It’s not about my situation, it’s about the team’s,” said a reserved Pacioretty. “Professionals always prepare like you’re playing.
“We finished the season really strong, put ourselves in a good opportunity to start at home and it’s a new season right now. Since the 4 Nations Faceoff, we have one of the best records in hockey. You want to take that momentum into playoffs.”
It was during the 4 Nations break that the 36-year-old Pacioretty hurt himself in training. Kampf’s prowess on faceoffs has been valued in 18 playoff games through two years, but Pontus Holmberg, newcomer Scott Laughton and Max Domi all filled that role and provided offence, too.
Head coach Craig Berube has said he expects Pacioretty, with 78 games of post-season experience, to get in the playoffs at some point.
Warhorse Reaves, who cleared waivers a few weeks ago and spent a few weeks with the Marlies, scoring once in three games, is not expected to play in the series after being recalled Friday.
“I have to stay ready, whether or not the opportunity comes,” he said.
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