Maple Leafs Lose Another Forward on Second Day Back At Practice After 4 Nations Break

With Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner set to square off against one another for Team USA and Team Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off finale on Thursday, the Maple Leafs have already reconvened in Toronto and have begun practicing at Ford Performance Centre.

Earlier this week, the team had announced that they had recalled AHL standout Alex Steeves from the Toronto Marlies. Some of the more immediate chatter opined that the recall might have something to do with Auston Matthews' reported upper-body tightness at the 4 Nations tournament, but we may now have some clarity as to why the move was really made.

On Wednesday morning, Max Pacioretty took to the ice in Toronto briefly, only to depart ahead of practice. Per Nick Barden of The Hockey News, nothing out of the ordinary had occurred, making his absence that much more puzzling.

Pacioretty has struggled to stay healthy this season, suiting up in just 37 of the Leafs' 55 games so far this season. Unfortunately, he could be headed back to the shelf when the season resumes.

Pacioretty skated on a line with Pontus Holmberg and Max Pacioretty on Tuesday at practice. On Wednesday, Connor Dewar skated in that 3rd line left wing slot, indicating that Pacioretty could potentially miss some time.

The Leafs don't play until Saturday, so there is still some time for Pacioretty to rest what's ailing him. Perhaps we'll get some clarity on his status following this morning's practice session.