Max Pacioretty Suffers Re-tear of Achilles Tendon, Hanging Up Skates a Real Possibility

The Carolina Hurricanes veteran suffered a torn right Achilles just weeks after returning from the same issue that cost him the first 38 games of the season.

The former Canadiens and Knights forward fell to the ice with less than 20 seconds left in the game and needed help off the ice putting no weight on his right leg. By video, Pacioretty suffers the tendon rupture as he changes directions after letting the pass off into the slot.

His previous Achilles tear and subsequent surgery happened in August 2022 and his first game back was January 5th 2023 meaning his debut came 5 months after injury - a full month earlier than anticipated.

Unfortunately this is the risk in speedy returns as it is impossible to speed up biology. 

The forward indeed was cleared for a return and played better than expected scoring 3 goals in 5 games. However, jumping into 16+ minutes of ice time combined with NHL game-speed took a toll on the previously injured leg causing Pacioretty to once again miss extended time.

The sniper has been limited to 92 games since the start of the 2020-2021 season including playing just 39 games last year due a broken foot and wrist.

The real concern going forward is if this is it for Pacioretty as this will again be a long term recovery that bleeds in into free agency and camp where he will likely be team-less. He is an unrestricted free agent after this year and in all likelihood the Hurricanes will cut ties meaning the forward will be a 34-year-old coming off an a second Achilles tear in a crowded market.

The gleaming hope is he showcased himself well in the five game stretch before injury but it will in all likelihood be an uphill battle for Pacioretty to build himself back up to NHL level fitness.