An update on the injured Max Pacioretty; it's not good news for the Capitals

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Mike Armenti
August 28, 2023 (9:36)

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We all know just how awful veteran winger Max Pacioretty's injury luck has been in recent years. Before he even played a game for the Hurricanes, Pacioretty suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon, forcing him to miss most of the season before making late season return to the Canes lineup. Unfortunately, lightning struck twice and Pacioretty fell victim to the same injury once again.

On July 1st, Pacioretty became an unrestricted free agent and very quickly came to terms on a new deal with the Washington Capitals. The one-year $2,000,000 contract was viewed as a low-value bet for the Caps, who are hoping to see Pacioretty bounce back.

Today, Capitals' head coach Spencer Carbery spoke to NHL.com about Pacioretty's progress and, unfortunately, it's not all good news.

"I'm not sure of the exact timeline. I don't think he'll be ready for the start of the regular season. But whether it's in the November timeframe or December, whenever he's healthy and ready to go, I think it gives us a great asset in Max to be able to, partway into the season, potentially give us a real jolt offensively in our top six, someone who can help us on the power play, someone who has proven time and time again that they can find ways to score, which is something that is coveted around the league." - Carbery on Pacioretty's timeline for return

This is a pretty significant year for Pacioretty, who has been limited to 48, 39 and 5 games over the last 3 seasons. When healthy, Pacioretty is a difference-maker. He can do one of the toughest things to do in the NHL - score goals. The problem is, the 34-year-old just can't seem to stay healthy.