Analyst's Harsh Forecast for Max Pacioretty Raises Doubts About His NHL Future
Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Analyst Brennan McClain revealed his thoughts on Max Pacioretty's new contract, and for the veteran forward, he might not be making all that much if he returns.
With the Maple Leafs still looking to add one or two more names to their lineup for the 2025-26 season, there is a question about whether or not the team should bring back Max Pacioretty.
Although he was a pleasant surprise in the playoffs, and added a great edge to the bottom half, injury issues kept him away again and with him only getting older; he might not have much time left.
What Pacioretty's Projected Deal Says About His Career Trajectory
Which is why according to analyst Brennan McClain, Pacioretty
s return this season is going to have to be at a discount on the salary, given his history and potential to miss large chunks of the season:
s return this season is going to have to be at a discount on the salary, given his history and potential to miss large chunks of the season:
Although he doesn't know where he's playing yet, Pacioretty should know exactly what kind of contract he's getting.
Due to the consistent injury concern, Pacioretty should only receive a one-year deal with a salary between $775K and $850K.
The signing team could include a handful of games played bonuses, as did the Maple Leafs, but those may not even be required to give Pacioretty another chance to close out his career on a positive note.
Due to the consistent injury concern, Pacioretty should only receive a one-year deal with a salary between $775K and $850K.
The signing team could include a handful of games played bonuses, as did the Maple Leafs, but those may not even be required to give Pacioretty another chance to close out his career on a positive note.
Basically, at this stage in his career, either Pacioretty signs already for the league minimum or slightly above; or he does what he did last season and play his way into a contract through signing a PTO.
But either way, he's gotta go where's best for not only him now but his future and with his family in mind, where are some places he could go to?
Why Teams May Be Wary of Taking a Chance on Pacioretty
Pacioretty has been linked to several teams like Detroit, Columbus and even his old stomping grounds, Montreal.
But wherever he decides to end up playing (if he does) then he needs to make sure that his health comes first and be up front with the team. Set expectations low, but give it your all.
He has missed 229 games over the last five seasons (an average of 45.8 games; over half the season) though the fact he made a comeback at all after two Achilles injuries is a miracle in and of itself.
Though there's always a place for a former captain, veteran, and one of the best American players of the last 15 years.
But he does come with a lot of baggage, and that may be too heavy for some.
On a league minimum deal where he isn't expected to do much more than hit, chip in with a few points and mentor the young players then sure, bringing him in isn't that much of a risk, especially if you already have to depth to weather a probably injury.
But if he signs for anything over $1-milllion that's a lot to ask for. You're essentially paying on name value at that point but that can only get your so far.
Pacioretty, 36, had 13 points in 37 games last season (8 goals, 5 assists) but was a pleasant surprise after coming back from injury to suit up in the playoffs.
In his 11 games with the team he posted 8 points (3 goals, 5 assists) and brought a much needed physical edge to a team that held their own against the Panthers.
But wherever he ends up, he's going to have to make sure he does whatever he can to stay healthy.
There's only limited time left for Pacioretty in the NHL; at least he's making every game he does play count.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 1 | 1622 ANSWERS Analyst's Harsh Forecast for Max Pacioretty Raises Doubts About His NHL Future Do you think Max Pacioretty is going to return for under $1-million? | ||
| Yes | 1005 | 62 % |
| No | 617 | 38 % |
| List of polls | ||
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