Detroit Red Wings are destined to sign Toronto Maple Leafs veteran forward in free agency
One week into NHL free agency, veteran winger Max Pacioretty remains unsigned. The 37-year-old is reportedly choosing between returning to the Toronto Maple Leafs or signing closer to home with the Detroit Red Wings.
NHL insider recently revealed Pacioretty wants to join the Red Wings, something Winnipeg Jets free agent Nikolaj Ehlers was not willing to do.
Friedman on 32TP says Washington, Utah and Colorado all made a pitch to Ehlers, Washington went particularly hard after him. Friedman surprised he only signed for 6-yr rather than 7. Guess he really wanted Carolina. Detroit wanted to make a pitch as well but were told no.
Where's the best fit for the seasoned forward?
Last season, injuries limited Pacioretty to 37 games with the Leafs, where he tallied up five goals and 13 points.
He played in various roles, from third-line checker to second-line winger alongside core-four forwards John Tavares and William Nylander.
In the playoffs he tallied eight points in 11 games, showing physicality and offense even at the age of 36.
Detroit has over $12 million in cap space and could offer a one-year, league-minimum deal or a $1M contract with bonuses.
Pacioretty, who coaches his son's minor hockey team, values family time moving forward, and his family members are located in Detroit.
The Red Wings, led by Steve Yzerman, are retooling after missing the playoffs, trading to acquire John Gibson in goal and re-signing Patrick Kane.
Pacioretty could be a candidate to earn top-nine minutes, potentially on the second line, if he stays healthy, as he hasn't played over 72 games since 2017.
Detroit keeps Pacioretty near family and also another opportunity to play for an Original Six franchise.
Previously on Red Wings Insider
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 7 | 349 ANSWERS Detroit Red Wings are destined to sign Toronto Maple Leafs veteran forward in free agency If you were in the shoes of GM Steve Yzerman, would you offer Max Pacioretty a one-year contract to sign with the Red Wings? | ||
| Yes | 193 | 55.3 % |
| No | 156 | 44.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
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