Veteran Winger Eyeing Return to Maple Leafs After Tremendous Playoff Performance

The Toronto Maple Leafs suffered another disappointing early playoff exit, falling in the second round to the Florida Panthers in seven games.

While much of the focus often falls on the performance of the "Core Four" and the lack of depth up front, one veteran player proved his worth this postseason - Max Pacioretty.

Despite entering free agency this summer, there appears to be mutual interest between Pacioretty and the Maple Leafs for a potential return. As reported by James Mirtle of The Athletic, and shared by Nick Barden on X:

In an injury-riddled season in his first season in Toronto, Pacioretty reminded the league of what he's capable of when healthy.

He had a mixed results season, as he only registered 13 points in 37 games in the regular season, but was a key contributor in the playoffs, posting 3 goals and 8 points in 11 games.

After replacing Nick Robertson in the lineup in round 1 against the Ottawa Senators, Pacioretty brought tenacity, experience, and clutch goal-scoring, eventually earning a top-six role during several key games in the playoffs.

If Pacioretty is willing to return on a team-friendly deal, he could be a perfect piece of Toronto's puzzle. Having veteran leadership to support the core - even if not in the lineup every night - is invaluable, and Pacioretty looks more than ready to embrace that role.