Max Pacioretty joins coaching staff at University of Michigan

The longtime NHL forward has joined the University of Michigan men’s hockey program as special assistant to head coach Brandon Naurato, the school announced Tuesday.

Pacioretty, 36, played 17 years in the NHL, including last season with the Toronto Maple Leafs. He had five goals and eight assists in 37 regular-season games in 2024-25 before adding three goals and five assists in 11 playoff games.

After the Leafs’ second-round loss, Pacioretty told reporters he was unsure if he would keep playing.

“After 17 seasons in the NHL, I’m excited to begin this next chapter with Michigan Hockey,” Pacioretty said in a statement Tuesday. “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. Michigan has a tradition of producing elite talent, and I can’t wait to share what I’ve learned to help these guys grow on and off the ice.

“Just as important, this next step allows me to be closer to my family and spend more time with my kids. I’m going to be coaching my four boys in youth hockey and that’s something I’ll really cherish as a dad.”

Pacioretty played one season at the University of Michigan after he was selected 22nd overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2007 NHL Draft. He went on to become captain of the Canadiens, while also playing with the Vegas Golden Knights, Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes.

Pacioretty made Michigan history in 2024 when he surpassed his former head coach Red Berenson in career NHL points (681). He’s also the Michigan leader in NHL goals scored (335) and games played (939).

“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. It’s exciting to have that kind of experience around every day.”

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