Max Pacioretty is going back to his alma mater.

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 mu

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