Pacioretty: Trade rumors are 'lightweight' compared to Montreal pressure
Vegas Golden Knights forward Max Pacioretty believes his experience playing in Montreal has taught him how to handle outside pressure.
"I played in Montreal for 10 years, so this is lightweight stuff," Pacioretty said Tuesday regarding a recent report that suggested Vegas is looking to trade him, according to David Schoen of the Las Vegas Review-Journal. "I've heard a lot worse. ... This is nothing."
Team owner Bill Foley denied the rumors, but the Golden Knights are nearly $1 million over the salary cap, and Pacioretty's contract carries a $7-million hit for three more seasons.
Pacioretty's production would be difficult to replace. The 32-year-old led the Golden Knights in goals (32), points (66), and shots (307) in 71 games last season.
The former Canadiens captain played under constant trade rumors during his final season in Montreal. Pacioretty insisted he never wanted to leave, but Habs general manager Marc Bergevin claims he asked for a trade. Pacioretty was eventually dealt to Vegas in September 2018 for Nick Suzuki, Tomas Tatar, and a second-round pick.
The Golden Knights have also reportedly explored moving Jonathan Marchessault and Marc-Andre Fleury.