Free agents: Max Pacioretty among the best players still available

The former Habs captain scored nine goals in his last two NHL seasons (one with the Capitals and one with the Leafs).

He must have missed some games in recent years, too, as he was injured more often than not. He’s only played 128 games since the 21-22 season…

On the other hand, Pacio was (really) good in the playoffs in Toronto (eight points, including three goals in 11 games) in a more limited role, and he’s found a way to bring energy to his club by playing more physically.

That’s why we thought his playoff performances would have allowed him to sign a new deal in the first few weeks of July, which didn’t happen.

But if teams continue to ignore him, we shouldn’t be surprised to see him hang up his skates. He did say at the Leafs’ post-season wrap-up that he missed his family last season and was looking forward to getting home to spend time with his kids…

We’ll have to keep an eye on that. But perhaps, seeing the list of players still available, a team will decide to offer him a new contract… because he’s still capable of making an impact on the ice, as we saw in the recent NHL playoffs.

Overtime

– Love this.

– Notice to interested parties.

– Looks promising for what’s to come.

– Oh.