MONTREAL CANADIENS STUN FANS WITH SURPRISE RETURN OF MAX PACIORETTY, SIGN VETERAN FORWARD TO A ONE-YEAR DEAL WORTH….read more…..

MONTREAL CANADIENS STUN FANS WITH SURPRISE RETURN OF MAX PACIORETTY, SIGN VETERAN FORWARD TO A ONE-YEAR DEAL WORTH….read more…..

In a move that has taken the hockey world by storm, the Montreal Canadiens have announced the return of one of their most beloved former players, Max Pacioretty. The veteran forward has signed a one-year deal with the club reportedly worth $3 million, signaling an emotional and symbolic homecoming for the former captain.

Pacioretty, who served as captain of the Canadiens from 2015 to 2018, spent the prime of his career in Montreal and was one of the league’s most consistent goal scorers during his time with the team. Known for his leadership, scoring ability, and strong connection with the fan base, Pacioretty’s return marks a full-circle moment in both his career and the franchise’s story.

“I never stopped thinking of Montreal as home,” Pacioretty said during Friday’s press conference. “This organization shaped who I am, both as a player and as a person. When the opportunity came to come back, I didn’t have to think twice.”

The 35-year-old winger last played for the Washington Capitals during the 2024–25 season, where injuries limited his impact. Despite the setbacks, Pacioretty still showed flashes of the sniper instinct that once made him a perennial 30-goal scorer. With a full offseason of recovery and preparation ahead, the Canadiens are betting that he still has something left in the tank.

General Manager Kent Hughes praised the signing, emphasizing both the hockey and cultural value Pacioretty brings to a young, developing roster.

“This is about more than just adding a talented forward,” Hughes said. “Max understands what it means to wear this jersey. He’s a professional who can still contribute on the ice and help mentor our young core as they grow into leaders themselves.”

Pacioretty’s return comes at a pivotal time for the Canadiens, who are in the midst of a rebuild anchored by promising talent like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovsky, and defenseman David Reinbacher. Suzuki, who currently wears the captain’s “C,” expressed excitement about sharing the ice with a player he once looked up to as a teenager.

“I grew up watching Max light it up in Montreal,” Suzuki said. “To have him in the locker room, to learn from a guy who’s done it all in this city, that’s going to be huge for us.”

The Canadiens are hoping that Pacioretty can provide valuable secondary scoring, leadership, and veteran poise in high-pressure moments. Though he may not be expected to lead the team in points, his experience and hockey IQ are expected to play a critical role, especially in close games and on special teams.

Head coach Martin St. Louis, who played against Pacioretty during his own playing career, echoed the sentiment.

“We’re getting a guy who knows how to score, how to lead, and how to battle through adversity,” St. Louis said. “He’ll fit into our system seamlessly and bring the kind of presence every young locker room needs.”

The emotional reaction from fans has been nothing short of overwhelming. Within hours of the announcement, #PaciorettyReturns was trending on social media, and the Canadiens’ online store saw a surge in custom jersey orders. Bell Centre ticket sales also saw an uptick, with many fans eager to see the former captain back on home ice.

“I can’t believe it’s real,” said longtime Canadiens fan Marie Tremblay. “I still have my Pacioretty jersey from 2015. He was always my favorite. It feels like we’ve got a piece of our heart back.”

Pacioretty, originally drafted 22nd overall by the Canadiens in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, played 10 seasons in Montreal before being traded to the Vegas Golden Knights in 2018. In 626 games with the Canadiens, he recorded 226 goals and 222 assists, establishing himself as one of the top forwards in franchise history during the modern era.

While the one-year, $3 million deal does not guarantee a long-term reunion, both sides are open to the possibility if the 2025–26 season goes well. Pacioretty himself said he’s taking things one step at a time.

“I’m here to give everything I’ve got,” he said. “This isn’t about nostalgia — it’s about helping this team win again. If I can help do that, that’s all that matters.”

As the Canadiens gear up for training camp this fall, the spotlight will undoubtedly shine on the returning star. For fans, it’s not just a signing — it’s a homecoming filled with hope, memories, and the promise of something special.