After a remarkable 17-season NHL career, Max Pacioretty has announced his retirement and is embarking on a new chapter as a special assistant to head coach Brandon Naurato with the University of Michigan hockey program. The announcement was made on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, marking the return of the former Wolverine to his alma mater.
Pacioretty, now 36 years old, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Michigan Wolverines. Naurato expressed his excitement about adding Pacioretty to the staff, emphasizing the value of having an NHL veteran mentor his players. "Bringing in a guy like Max is huge for us," Naurato said. "He's been through it all in the NHL and knows what it takes to play and lead at the highest level. Our players are going to learn a ton from the way he sees the game, how he prepares, and how he carries himself."
Throughout his NHL career, Pacioretty played 939 regular-season games, amassing 335 goals, 346 assists, and 681 points. Drafted 22nd overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2007, Pacioretty's NHL journey included stints with the Vegas Golden Knights, Carolina Hurricanes, Washington Capitals, and Toronto Maple Leafs. His final season in the NHL was with the Maple Leafs in 2024-25, where he recorded 13 points in 37 games. He also contributed 8 points in 11 playoff games for Toronto.
Pacioretty is perhaps best known for his decade-long tenure with the Montreal Canadiens, where he served as captain for three seasons (2015-2018). With the Canadiens, he had 226 goals and 448 points in 626 regular-season games. In 2012, Pacioretty received the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, an award given to the NHL player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey. He also earned an NHL All-Star Game selection in 2020 while playing for Vegas.
Pacioretty also reflected on his time in the NHL and his enthusiasm for his new role. "After 17 seasons in the NHL, I'm excited to begin this next chapter with Michigan Hockey," Pacioretty stated. "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." He also noted his excitement about coaching his four sons in youth hockey and spending more time with his family.
Pacioretty's connection to the University of Michigan dates back to the 2007-08 season, where he tallied 15 goals and 23 assists for 38 points in 36 games, earning him a spot on the CCHA All-Rookie Team. His return to Michigan marks a full-circle moment, as he now looks to guide and mentor young players striving to reach the highest levels of the sport.
With Michigan aiming to reclaim its status as a top college hockey program, Pacioretty's experience and insights will be invaluable. His presence will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the Wolverines, as he imparts the lessons learned from a long and successful NHL career.
