Teams are reportedly "sniffing around" the Capitals winger, who recently returned from a re-torn Achilles.
The Washington Capitals sit five points out of a playoff spot and are still pondering their approach to the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline in two weeks, but one name that's gaining traction on the market is Max Pacioretty.
ESPN's Emily Kaplan reported on Thursday's broadcast of the Capitals' tilt with the Tampa Bay Lightning that Pacioretty's name has come up in talks amongst teams.
"This is going to be interesting... I have heard there's teams kind of sniffing around, I don't know how robust the market is," Kaplan said. "Again, he has full control here, and if he does move, there are teams interested."
Pacioretty is 20 games into his return from a re-torn Achilles that held him out for nearly a year. He has a goal and nine assists for 10 points, putting him on pace for a 41-point campaign in a regular season, and he has helped give a new look to the Capitals' middle-6 and power play.
The 35-year-old has a full no-movement clause and a cap hit of $2 million, plus bonuses for games played. Pacioretty signed a one-year deal to join Washington to start free agency.
He told The Hockey News this month that he is not focused on the deadline and that he is enjoying his time in D.C., and that he also hopes the group can stay together.
"I've never thought about it. I mean, It's something that's out of our control. Where I'm at in my life and my career, my family, definitely don't think about it at all. I can't speak for others, but I mean, we're all professional here," Pacioretty said. "We want to try and make the playoffs and try and make a push, and we'll see what we're able to do.
"I can't speak for everyone, but we really like this group, especially off the ice. This team really cares for one another. They've had a lot of success together and really close teammates. I think that's been voiced around the league, everybody knows that about this team," Pacioretty said. "So definitely don't want to see people go, but you can't really control that situation. I can't speak for everybody, but for myself, you want to try and make the playoffs for the team and that's our goal.
Kaplan also added that location is important for Pacioretty, who is a father of five. John Buccigross commented that he's primarily an East Coast player, which could impact his destination.
While it's unclear what D.C. will do at the deadline given its recent turnaround and T.J. Oshie's injury on Thursday, Pacioretty could fetch a decent return. And if a contender is interested, he could be willing to waive his NMC to get a good chance at a Stanley Cup.
Pacioretty is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.