Pacioretty joins Michigan coaching staff
Max Pacioretty's playing career appears to be over.
The 36-year-old is joining the University of Michigan as a special assistant to the head coach, the program announced Tuesday.
"After 17 seasons in the NHL, I'm excited to begin this next chapter with Michigan hockey," Pacioretty said in a statement. "I'm so thankful for the teammates, coaches and fans who have been a part of my journey. Hockey has given me so much, and now I have the opportunity to help develop the next generation of players.
"Michigan has a tradition of producing elite talent, and I can't wait to share what I've learned to help these guys grow on and off the ice. Just as important, this next step allows me to be closer to my family and spend more time with my kids. I'm going to be coaching my four boys in youth hockey and that's something I'll really cherish as a dad."
He spent the 2024-25 campaign with the Toronto Maple Leafs and totaled 13 points in 37 games during the regular season before adding three goals and five assists in 11 playoff appearances. He became an unrestricted free agent in the offseason, but he didn't sign anywhere.
Pacioretty tallied 335 goals and 681 points in 939 career games. He scored 30 goals six times, including a career-high 39 in 2013-14 during his heyday with the Montreal Canadiens. He served as Montreal's captain for three seasons from 2015-18.
He suffered a fractured vertebrae and concussion while playing for the Canadiens in March 2011. Pacioretty returned the next season to register 33 goals and 65 points, winning the 2012 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy recognizing perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey.
The 6-foot-2 winger also played for the Vegas Golden Knights, Carolina Hurricanes, and Washington Capitals.
Pacioretty played one season with Michigan in 2007-08 before turning pro, racking up 39 points in 37 games.