Leafs head coach Craig Berube benches veteran in home opening win against the Penguins
Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube decided to bench one his veteran forwards, Max Pacioretty, on Saturday night against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
While the Toronto Maple Leafs secured a 4-2 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday night head coach Craig Berube made a clear statement by keeping veteran Max Pacioretty on the bench for much of the game.
Berube known for his tough no nonsense coaching style was hired by the Leafs to bring that exact attitude hoping it would push the players to perform. His approach was evident during the game as Pacioretty, despite being a proven veteran, played just three shifts in the third period and had less than 11 minutes of total ice time. He was also removed from the top power-play unit in the final period.
Pacioretty who signed a one year contract with the Leafs after a strong training camp has scored one goal in three games so far this season. His first as a Maple Leaf came during Thursday's game against Sheldon Keefe & the New Jersey Devils. Over these three games, Pacioretty has averaged about 11 minutes of ice time per game.
Coach Berube clearly expects more from Pacioretty. While he's on a low-risk, low-cost contract, Berube is showing that no player is above accountability.
Another veteran player missed practice on Saturday and didn't play against the Penguins due to an illness, but it doesn't seem to be anything serious. The Maple Leafs now have a few days off before their next game against the LA Kings on Wednesday night.
| POLL | ||
13 OCTOBRE | 317 ANSWERS Leafs head coach Craig Berube benches veteran in home opening win against the Penguins Do you think Max Pacioretty needs to be better for the Toronto Maple Leafs? | ||
| Yes | 216 | 68.1 % |
| No | 65 | 20.5 % |
| Not sure | 36 | 11.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
