Maple Leafs Enter Bidding War With Division Rival for Max Pacioretty

There's a lot to be said about the signing of Max Pacioretty this past summer. Although he dealt with injuries as what has happened in previous years, he still managed a solid season and was a bright spot for the Maple Leafs come playoff time.

But he was only signed to a one-year deal and he's now a free agent with the hopes of continuing his career. Stating he would like to stay with Toronto, the feeling seems to be mutual, and it might not be long before he is back in blue and white.

However according to Leafs Nations' Nick Alberga, there may be another player in the Pacioretty sweepstakes: The Detroit Red Wings.

It makes sense given that Pacioretty hails from New Caanan, CT, which is only a short 10-hour drive from Michigan where his family is.

With his career winding down and the desire to be close to his family, Pacioretty might decide to entertain an offer from the Red Wings, and knowing they have a decent amount of cap space to work with, adding Pacioretty on a deal that's higher than Toronto is definitely plausible.

Pacioretty, 36, only skated in 35 games for the Maple Leafs this past season, scoring 13 points (8G, 5A) but he was a huge boost in the playoffs, adding eight points in 11 games (3G, 5A).

Reinventing himself this season, he turned into a more physical force and endeared himself to Leafs fans even though he was captain of the rival Canadiens for years.

If Toronto wanted to reward him for his efforts, they could just give him a slight bump in pay but stretch it to a two-year deal. If they can give him a $2.5-million deal but load it with bonuses and performance goals; it's a very cheap deal for a bottom-six veteran with proven leadership qualities.

It won't be the easiest move to make, especially if Pacioretty decides home is where he's better off; but don't expect the Maple Leafs to give up on him just yet.