3 thoughts on the Toronto Maple Leafs latest moves ahead of training camp

Item #3: Does signing Max Pacioretty even make sense now?

Prior to the Nick Robertson signing, getting Pacioretty into the fold made some sense. An argument could have been made for Easton Cowan on the third line with Pacioretty playing a fourth-line grinder role.

But now that Robertson is in the fold, and considering the fact that he’s not guaranteed a roster spot, does bringing Pacioretty in make sense now?

Personally, I don’t think so. My concern is that signing Pacioretty will take away a potential roster spot for someone like Cowan. So, reading between the lines, it seems that the Leafs aren’t sure about what they have in Robertson or that Cowan can make the team.

Assuming that Cowan just isn’t ready for the NHL yet, bringing in Pacioretty makes sense. Pacioretty can take over the fourth-line left-wing job, with McMann and Robertson duking it out for the second-line role.

Now, there’s another twist to this situation. Rumours persist that the Leafs will be looking to trade Robertson anyway. I don’t think that’s the case. But bringing in Pacioretty would alleviate the loss of Robertson if and when such a rumour becomes true.

Again, I don’t think Robertson is going anywhere this season. Both sides are interested in him playing out the year, and playing well.

If the Leafs do bring Pacioretty in, it could be nothing more than a low-risk move. Pacioretty is essentially done in the NHL. Signing him would be nothing more than an attempt to prove he still belongs in the pros. If he pans out, the Leafs could get a resurgent season at a bargain basement price.

But that seems like wishful thinking at this point.