NHL Rumors: Max Pacioretty Linked To One Team In Free Agency.

Friday, July 04, 2025
Toronto Maple Leafs forward celebrates goal during 2025 game.

The Toronto Maple Leafs aren’t ruling out another run with veteran forward Max Pacioretty. 

Maple Leafs Open to Re-Signing Max Pacioretty After Strong Postseason

After a productive playoff showing and a quiet start to free agency, general manager Brad Treliving confirmed the team is keeping communication lines open with Pacioretty’s camp. 

“I certainly haven’t closed the door on Max,” Treliving said, noting they wanted to get through the initial wave of free agency before circling back.

Pacioretty Earned Trust with Playoff Performance

Pacioretty joined the Leafs on a professional tryout last fall and played 37 regular-season games, notching five goals and eight assists. But it was his postseason impact that turned heads. The 36-year-old scored three goals and added five assists in 11 playoff games, including a series-clincher against Ottawa. 

His chemistry with William Nylander and John Tavares gave Toronto a much-needed secondary scoring boost, and his leadership helped steady a team chasing a deep run.

Cap Space and Mutual Interest Make Deal Possible

With just under $5 million in cap space, Toronto has flexibility, though they still need to sign RFA Nick Robertson. Bringing back Pacioretty on another short-term deal could make sense, especially after he reportedly expressed interest in returning. 

While injuries limited his regular-season action, he proved his value when it mattered most. If the Maple Leafs are serious about changing their "DNA," retaining a gritty, playoff-tested scorer like Pacioretty could be part of that vision.

Photo Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

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