Auston Matthews and the Toronto Maple Leafs are gearing up for a mentally-grueling NHL offseason in which several key players on the team face pivotal decisions. According to the latest reports, one veteran has made his stance clear about his future in Toronto.
The Maple Leafs are currently grappling with a crucial decision regarding Mitch Marner’s future, as the star winger draws interest from several NHL teams. However, Toronto is also facing contract battles on other fronts—some of which appear far more manageable than the increasingly complex Marner situation.
On that note, veteran Max Paccioretty is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1st, and the Maple Leafs have already shown interest in retaining the 36-year-old winger. Paccioretty’s stance, however, remained unclear. That is until recent reports emerged, stating the forward intends to stay in Toronto alongside Matthews and the rest of the team.
“UFA Max Pacioretty is leaning toward a return after the Leafs expressed considerable interest in keeping him following a terrific postseason,” The Athletic‘sJames Mirtle said on a report from the NHL Combine at Buffalo.
Max Pacioretty #67 of the Toronto Maple Leafs waits for a puck drop against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the 2nd period in an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on October 12, 2024.
Injury-riddled year
Paccioretty’s 2024-25 NHL season—his 17th career campaign and first with the Maple Leafs—was marred by injuries and setbacks. After missing two-and-a-half months, the former first round pick in the 2007 NHL entry Draft returned to the lineup during the Stanley Cup Playoffs, where he played a key role.
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Paccioretty finished fourth for most points on the Maple Leafs during the postseason with 8 tallies (3G, 5A), only trailing William Nylander, Mitch Marner, and Auston Matthews. His leadership and still active production are some traits the Maple Leafs wish to retain ahead of the 2025-26 season.
Paccioretty is seemingly convinced Toronto gives him the best shot at his first Stanley Cup, a thought that might not be shared by teammate Marner, who’s reportedly headed for the exit door.
