NHL Rumors: Capitals Could Look To Sell High On Recently-Signed Forward

As the upcoming NHL season approaches, the Washington Capitals are facing speculation regarding the fate of their recently-signed winger, Max Pacioretty.

Having inked a one-year deal with a base salary of $2 million and an additional $2 million in performance bonuses, Pacioretty's potential trade by the deadline is generating interest.

Max Pacioretty is a goal scorer pic.twitter.com/EPe9a8wsI3

— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) January 7, 2023

However, this prospect is contingent on his recovery from a twice-torn Achilles tendon, which limited his play to merely five games with the Carolina Hurricanes last season.

Despite his injury history, Pacioretty's potential impact cannot be ignored.

If he can reclaim his status as a 30-plus goal scorer, the Capitals could potentially secure a valuable return in a trade, particularly if their playoff hopes dim as the trade deadline nears.

Pacioretty again! Max Pacioretty tallies his second goal of the period to put the Hurricanes in the lead!#LetsGoCanes pic.twitter.com/IjyrYHVQHT

— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) January 7, 2023

It's essential to acknowledge the complexity introduced by his full no-movement clause, giving him veto power over any trade.

While his expected absence from the season's start adds uncertainty, his future with the Capitals hinges on his performance and the team's standings in the lead-up to the trade deadline. Photo Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports