The Toronto Maple Leafs are set to face the Ottawa Senators tonight in their first preseason game, and the lineup has just been released.
Fans are in for a treat as the Leafs will field a star-studded roster, including Auston Matthews, who will make his debut as team captain at Scotiabank Arena. Additionally, Max Pacioretty is set to play his first game with the Leafs tonight.
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Bringing Pacioretty into camp adds depth to the team, with new coach Craig Berube offering a fresh approach. While younger players like Pontus Holmberg, Connor Dewar, Ryan Reaves, and Easton Cowan are competing for spots, Pacioretty's experience could make him a valuable addition to the bottom-six without stunting the development of prospects.
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Pacioretty's agent, Allan Walsh, has hinted that it's almost certain Pacioretty will sign with the Leafs, and barring any surprises, a deal seems inevitable.
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William Nylander and John Tavares will also be on the ice, with Tavares debuting as an assistant captain. Meanwhile, young prospect Easton Cowan will try to earn a roster spot.
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Fans can also expect to see the Leafs' power play in action, as it's likely the Senators will give them some chances. The power-play unit appears unchanged from last season.
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As for the Ottawa Senators, it looks like they will be icing a much weaker lineup which makes sense as teams don't usually bring their veterans on the road.
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Puck drop is at 7 p.m. Eastern. Get ready, Leafs fans!
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