Max Pacioretty returning to alma mater, joins Michigan hockey staff following NHL retirement

Former NHL forward Max Pacioretty has joined the Michigan hockey program as special assistant to head coach Brandon Naurato, the school announced Tuesday. Pacioretty and Naurato were teammates on the Wolverines’ 2007-08 hockey team.

“Bringing in a guy like Max is huge for us,” Naurato said in a statement. “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.

“Having an alum like Max back around the program reminds our players that they’re part of something bigger, and that’s the Michigan Hockey legacy.”

Pacioretty, 36, was one of the leading scorers on that Michigan team that won a conference championship and made it to the NCAA Frozen Four. He was named to the CCHA All-Rookie Team after tallying 15 goals and 38 points in 36 games. After the season, he signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Montreal Canadiens, who selected him with the 22nd overall pick in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.

“After 17 seasons in the NHL, I’m excited to begin this next chapter with Michigan Hockey,” Pacioretty said. “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.”

Max Pacioretty transitioning into coaching after retiring from NHL

Pacioretty, who announced his retirement on Monday after 17 seasons, spent 10 of those with the Canadiens. He was named the 29th captain in franchise history ahead of the 2015-16 season following the departure of Brian Gionta. Pacioretty skated in 626 games for Montreal, recording 226 goals and 222 assists for 448 points.

Montreal traded Pacioretty to the Vegas Golden Knights in September 2018; he was immediately signed to a four-year, $28 million extension. Pacioretty bounced around the league over his final three seasons, spending time with the Carolina Hurricanes, Washington Capitals, and Toronto Maple Leafs.

He ended his career with 335 goals, 346 assists and 681 points. Pacioretty represented the United States at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi.