Max Pacioretty on the Maple Leafs: “the hardest-working group I’ve ever played with”.

Max Pacioretty loves being in Toronto.

He’s been bragging about it ever since he arrived in the Queen City. It all started with his public post about how his kids thought the Leafs jersey was the best he’d ever worn. I guess they weren’t old enough to see the 67 in a Habs uniform…

And recently, Pacio added more. He says the Leafs’ current group is the hardest he’s ever had the chance to play with.

“This is the hardest group I’ve ever been a part of.”

Max Pacioretty on the make-up of the 2024-25 Maple Leafs. pic.twitter.com/mhyIkOFPae

– TSN (@TSN_Sports) October 5, 2024

The former Habs captain, who has traveled extensively in recent years, understands why Toronto is so successful. It’s because the guys work hard.

Wait until the playoffs come, Max.

Pacioretty also understands why the Leafs’ best players are among the NHL’s best. Again, it’s because the guys don’t drag their feet during practice, among other things, and he understood that from his first minutes as a member of the Leafs.

As for the main interested party, he still hasn’t signed a contract.

He was invited to camp via a professional tryout, but according to Nick Alberga, a one-season pact will be confirmed tomorrow, a few days before the team’s first regular-season game in Montreal.

As expected, Max Pacioretty will be signing a one-year deal with the Maple Leafs.

Source tells me it should get done on Sunday.

– Nick Alberga (@thegoldenmuzzy) October 5, 2024

As for the long-awaited game, don’t expect Pacioretty to be welcomed by the Montreal crowd.

After all, Habs fans don’t forget.

Overtime

– Too bad.

Laval Rocket suffers second straight setback https://t.co/1lLr8My7sh

– La Presse Sports (@LaPresse_Sports) October 5, 2024

– It might be a good idea to put Ivan Demidov in the fray next game.

No points in Cherepovets tonight

After a disappointing start, we subsequently improved and got back to within one, but in the end we just ran out of time.

All thoughts now on Lokomotiv! #hcSKA pic.twitter.com/DCjFbesUCL

– SKA Ice Hockey Club (@hcSKA_News) October 5, 2024

– Imagine if the Russian played on the first line…

Ivan Demidov is one point behind SKA’s top scorer.

He’s the 2nd leading scorer and has the 3rd best differential on the team (+7).

All this while playing on the 3, the 4 or as the 13th forward.

Is this a joke? #FreeIvan pic.twitter.com/neh2JCfJlf

– Maxime Truman (@MaximeTruman) October 5, 2024

– Michael Hage will be one to watch today.