Taking the Montreal Canadiens–Toronto Maple Leafs pipeline is a risky strategy for any player in the NHL. However, it might have been a good decision for one of Auston Matthews‘ former teammates, who could now return to the organization in Hogtown for the 2025-26 season.
Losing Mitch Marner is an absence big enough for Matthews and company to shut the doors on the return of a former teammate. However, it might be up for the veteran to decide what’s best for his NHL career: retiring, signing with the Leafs, or moving on to a different team.
Max Pacioretty has long flirted with hanging up the skates after a 17-year career in the league. However, he is still after the Stanley Cup and that might be a motivation strong enough to give it another go in the 2025-26 NHL season.
What’s next for Pacioretty?
As the 36-year-old veteran makes up his mind about his professional career, there are some alternatives for his next team, but reports indicate the Maple Leafs make the most sense for the winger, whose background includes a ten-year stint with the Canadiens.
“A return to the Maple Leafs seems the most likely of these options [for Pacioretty],” The Hockey News’ Michael Augello stated. “GM Brad Treliving indicated that he is open to bringing Pacioretty back, but with Toronto, its summer moves seem to be on hold until Nick Robertson’s contract situation is rectified, and until the Leafs can move out either David Kampf or Calle Jarnkrok.“
Staying put
If Pacioretty decides to retire, then that’d be the end of this conversation. The veteran forward has admitted thoughts of stepping away from the league, as he’s battled through injuries during large stretches of his career.
Pacioretty found a new beginning last season, when he was invited to the Maple Leafs’ training camp on a professional tryout contract (PTO). He would go on to sign a one-year deal worth $873,770.
Second chance
Pacioretty appeared in 37 games, posting 13 points (5G, 8A), but the Buds are seemingly open to welcoming him back to the lineup. According to Augello, other possible suitors for Pacioretty could be the Edmonton Oilers, Detroit Red Wings, or perhaps the Habs.
SURVEY What will Pacioretty decide on his future?
What will Pacioretty decide on his future?
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After Marner’s exit to Las Vegas, captain Matthews is feeling the burden almost entirely on his shoulders—and an experienced presence like Pacioretty’s might be just what the face of the franchise, and the Leafs themselves, need to hold the line heading into yet another do-or-die campaign.