In a move that has electrified the hockey world, former Montreal Canadiens captain Max Pacioretty has announced his return to the franchise where he began his NHL career, signaling what he calls “one final chapter” with the team that first made him a star.
At a packed press conference held at the Bell Centre on Friday morning, Pacioretty stood beaming alongside Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes and head coach Martin St. Louis as he officially signed a one-year, performance-based contract to rejoin the Habs. The deal, reportedly worth up to \$2.5 million with incentives, brings the 36-year-old winger back to Montreal after nearly seven years away.
“This city, this logo, and these fans have always meant the world to me,” said Pacioretty, fighting back emotion. “When I left, I always hoped the door wouldn’t be closed forever. Coming back now, at this stage in my career, feels like the perfect way to write the ending to my NHL story.
Drafted 22nd overall by Montreal in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Pacioretty played ten seasons with the Canadiens, serving as captain from 2015 to 2018. Known for his goal-scoring prowess and physical presence, he notched 226 goals and 222 assists in 626 games with the Habs.
After being traded to the Vegas Golden Knights in 2018 and later playing for Carolina and Washington, his career was plagued by injuries, including two Achilles tendon tears. However, Pacioretty has been healthy throughout the 2024–25 season and appears poised for a resurgence.
GM Kent Hughes described the signing as “a homecoming and a strategic move.”
“Max brings veteran leadership, goal-scoring ability, and a deep understanding of what it means to wear the CH. Our young roster will benefit greatly from his experience,” said Hughes. “He’s coming back with hunger, and we’re excited to have him guide this group both on and off the ice.”
Fans erupted on social media minutes after the announcement, with hashtags like #PaciorettyReturns and #CaptainIsBack trending across Quebec. Season ticket sales reportedly surged within the hour.
“Seeing Max back in red, white, and blue—it’s going to be emotional,” said longtime fan Camille Tremblay, who attended the press conference wearing Pacioretty’s old #67 jersey. “He’s a part of our history, and now, part of our present again.”
Coach Martin St. Louis hinted that Pacioretty could slot into a top-six role and play on the power play unit. “He still has that elite shot, and his hockey sense has only matured. He’s coming in with the mindset of a leader who wants to win.”
As the Canadiens continue to develop their youthful core, the return of their former captain adds a compelling narrative to the team’s trajectory. While expectations remain measured, the symbolic weight of Pacioretty’s return has rekindled memories of past glories and stirred hopes for one last playoff run.
“This is where I belong,” said Pacioretty. “And I’m not just here to reminisce. I’m here to compete—and to win.”