NHL Free Agency: Maple Leafs UFA Max Pacioretty Linked to 5 Teams

Max Pacioretty is still a free agent; Leafs & 4 other teams make sense as a fit

Are the Toronto Maple Leafs still in on unrestricted free agent Max Pacioretty? The 17-year veteran didn't produce much during the regular season for them this past year, but he was a physical presence and a legit threat in the playoffs.

Toronto GM Brad Treliving had said he was interested in re-engaging with Patches and potentially re-signing him, but if he doesn't act sooner rather than later, there are four other teams that could be likely destinations, as listed by Michael Augello of The Hockey News. Let's have a look, in alphabetical order:

Detroit Red Wings

As Augello notes, Pacioretty, who played his college hockey in Michigan, lives in the state in the offseason. The Red Wings could use a grizzled playoff vet like that to help them get back to the postseason.

Edmonton Oilers

We reported last week on the suggestion from David Staples of the Edmonton Journal that Pacioretty would be an ideal fit for the Oilers, who have to fill the departed physicality of the likes of Evander Kane and Corey Perry.

Montreal Canadiens

This destination also makes sense for the former first-round pick, who could finish his career right where it all began. He spent the first 10 years of his career with the Habs, registering five 30-goal seasons there. With all the youngsters in the locker room, the soon-to-be 37-year-old could add a steady veteran hand to help them grow.

New York Rangers

As Augello notes, the Rangers had interest in Pacioretty at the 2024 trade deadline, but he decided to play out the year with the Washington Capitals. He was still working his way back into shape that season after tearing his Achilles twice and missing a season and a half.

Toronto Maple Leafs

Last but not least, Toronto is still seen as the most likely spot for Pacioretty to play out one more season. But "their summer moves seem to be on hold until (RFA) Nick Robertson’s contract situation is rectified, and until they can move out either David Kampf or Calle Jarnkrok", writes Augello, to make cap room.