Stardate 41365.9: A strange species which relies on direct computer interfaces to communicate with each other, known as the Bynars, are set to upgrade the Enterprise's computer. However, instead they cause the crew to abandon ship by faking a pending loss of warp core containment. They have also set up a diversion in the holodeck to keep Riker onboard and unaware of the situation. Picard, who had stopped by the holodeck, is also left onboard, unaware. The space station holding the Enterprise for the upgrade sends the Enterprise on an automatic course away from the station, to prevent its destruction.

While back in Minnesota to fill in as coach for a high-school hockey team, MacGyver tries to change the attitude of a callous player who has a shot at playing for the pros. But when this kid's ambition lands another player in the hospital, MacGyver must try and find out what or who is pushing him so hard to succeed.