Max Pacioretty
Maximillian Kolenda Pacioretty is coming off a second Achilles tear in two seasons, lasting just five games before his time with the Carolina Hurricanes was cut short. Pacioretty scored three goals in those five games, showing what the Canes were hoping to get when they traded for him. He was a good risk, and it could have worked out if the injury didn’t happen again.
This offseason, Pacioretty is looking for his next deal. With the Hurricanes give him more money, or will they let him walk because of his injury risk? When will Pacioretty be healthy again? That’s a big question.
Would Pacioretty be willing to take a “prove-it” contract with a team likely to be in contention like the Devils? It all depends on the financials, but the Devils could make it work about as much as any other contender.
The Hurricanes will likely pursue Pacioretty all offseason, as there seems to be a real fit between the two. It would take an interesting offer or opportunity to break them apart. While the Devils may have lost to the Hurricanes in the playoffs, their star is on the rise. It would make sense to go after the right deal with Pacioretty.