Eye-opening statement by Toronto Maple Leafs UFA reveals willingness to join the Detroit Red Wings
Photo credit: Srreenshot
The Detroit Red Wings are reportedly still interested in signing a 36-year-old veteran in free agency.
After spending last season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Max Pacioretty is still available. While a return to Toronto had been expected, no deal has materialized. And now, with his future still undetermined, the Red Wings appear to be serious contenders to bring the former Montreal Canadiens captain to Michigan, where he has family ties.
A while back, analyst Nick Alberga noted:
"The Leafs remain interested in re-signing Max Pacioretty. That said, being close to family, who are in Michigan, is a top priority for him. Leading up to July 1, one team to look out for is the Detroit Red Wings."
Pacioretty took part in 939 career games in the NHL and scored 13 points in 37 regular-season games last year.
He followed that up with a great playoff run, tallying eight points in 11 games. His leadership and offensive instincts remain evident, even as he nears the end of his career.
A Final Season In the NHL With The Detroit Red Wings For Max Pacioretty?
The Red Wings, who haven't made the playoffs since 2016, are clearly still looking to add veteran experience to complement their youth. General manager Steve Yzerman is taking deliberate steps this offseason to add grit, leadership, and playoff experience-boxes Pacioretty checks with ease.
David Staples of the Edmonton Journal also weighed in on where Pacioretty might land:
"It seems most likely that if Pacioretty does play, Toronto or Detroit or some other eastern team will sign him. But the lure of taking on Corey Perry's role here in Edmonton is not insignificant."
Pacioretty had been non-committal about continuing his career, citing time away from family as a major factor:
"This year was very difficult for me, being away from my family. I'm really excited to just get home and be with them, and talk to them about what's next in life."
With family in Michigan and the Red Wings in need of leadership, the fit is almost too logical. If Pacioretty does decide to suit up for one more NHL season, don't be surprised if it happens in Detroit.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 21 | 135 ANSWERS Eye-opening statement by Toronto Maple Leafs UFA reveals willingness to join the Detroit Red Wings Do you think the Detroit Red Wings should offer a PTO to Max Pacioretty? | ||
| Yes | 97 | 71.9 % |
| No | 38 | 28.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
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