NHL Rumors: Max Pacioretty On His Way Back to Maple Leafs?

Max Pacioretty had a tough time away from his family last season, and dealing with some injuries, but all in all, his first season as a Toronto Maple Leaf was a success. The veteran winger was a huge part of their playoff success this past season, and is considering returning to Toronto for another season.

According to James Mirtle of The Athletic, Pacioretty has interest in re-signing with the Maple Leafs, even though he was held out of the lineup at times down the stretch due to cap issues for Toronto. 

Pacioretty would be headed into his 18th season if he does play next year, and has changed the makeup of his game to be a better suited checking winger, than a prolific scorer he once was as a Montreal Canadien.

Pacioretty finished last season with five goals and 13 points in 37 games, but added a strong postseason, with three goals and eight points in 11 playoff games. He signed last year for $874,000 and would be looking for roughly the same contract, this time it could be layered with even more bonuses. Pacioretty received an additional $600,000 in performance bonuses from the Leafs last season.

If the Maple Leafs don't re-sign Pacioretty, look for them to turn to Patrick Kane, who could make a huge impact in the dressing room, one that could use some more winners.

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