Detroit Red Wings projected to sign former Maple Leafs veteran: He admits he wants to go home
Photo credit: Frank Gunn, The Canadian Press
With the Toronto Maple Leafs completing their roster, veteran forward Max Pacioretty could return home to Michigan to play for the Detroit Red Wings.
The Detroit Red Wings need more help in the forward core. GM Steve Yzerman has been conservative with his moves lately, other than the John Gibson trade.
He could give the Red Wings another weapon to play not only in the middle-six, but on the power-play if they offer a contract to Max Pacioretty, a former Michigan Wolverine.
Pacioretty calls Michigan his home during the offseason, which could give him motivation to look to Steve Yzerman for a new home in the NHL:
Pacioretty makes his off-season home in Michigan and played his college hockey with the Wolverines. His family remained there while he played in Toronto, and being away from them was a big factor in his hinting towards retirement immediately after the season. It is likely that in a perfect world, he would want to sign with the Wings, who are desperate to snap a long playoff drought, but there are no strong indicators that GM Steve Yzerman has interest.
While the Detroit Red Wings are only one team linked to Pacioretty, there still remain many suitors according to recent reports. The New York Rangers, Buffalo Sabres, and New Jersey Devils were said to be interested in acquiring his services.
However, none have jumped at the chance so far.
In 37 games played for the Maple Leafs, he scored 13 points (5-8) and is a UFA on the market.
His last contract was above league minimum at $873K AAV for one year in Toronto.
A return home to Michigan could be a bit of comfort for the former sniper, whose since become a journeyman in the NHL after his exit from Montreal & Vegas.
Previously on Red Wings Insider
| POLL | ||
AOUT 23 | 411 ANSWERS Detroit Red Wings projected to sign former Maple Leafs veteran: He admits he wants to go home Should GM Steve Yzerman of the Detroit Red Wings offer forward Max Pacioretty, a UFA, a contract? | ||
| Yes | 287 | 69.8 % |
| No | 124 | 30.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
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