Stunning turn of events for Max Pacioretty on first day as free agent

A few weeks prior to the NHL’s Free Agency opening day, reports hinted at the possibility of veteran forward Max Pacioretty staying put in Toronto and re-signing with the Maple Leafs. However on Tuesday, hours into the opening of the market, Nick Alberga of Leafs’ Latest reported a significant change in the future plans of Pacioretty. It is now believed that Pacioretty remains surveying his options — including retirement.

While the Maple Leafs expressed considerable interest in keeping him following a terrific postseason, Pacioretty is 36 years old and his health has often been an issue throughout his career.

After missing significant time late in the regular season again in 2024-25, Pacioretty did return for the playoffs, posting three goals and eight points in 11 games.

I guess the question of retirement has also come up since he did mentioned how he had trouble living apart from his family this season and would reassess his future once he returned home and spoke with them. Maybe they indeed had something say that is now having Pacioretty reconsider his future, not only in Toronto, but in the NHL as well.

In 939 career games with the Leafs, Washington Capitals, Carolina Hurricanes, Vegas Golden Knights and Montreal Canadiens, Pacioretty has 335 goals and 346 assists. He just completed his 17th NHL season.