Original Six Rival Gunning to Steal Max Pacioretty from the Toronto Maple Leafs

One of the nice surprises of the postseason was Max Pacioretty, who gave the Leafs a solid eight points in 11 games. Contrast this with his 13 points in 35 games in the regular season, and you realize just how important it is to be healthy.

At the age of 36, it is only natural that there are questions about Pacioretty's commitment to playing hockey. After all, switching teams frequently has been tough on his family.

However, a few weeks ago, the forward pledged that he wanted to return to the Maple Leafs. Now, a team threatens to steal him away.

According to Nick Alberga, the Detroit Red Wings are thinking of making a run at Pacioretty as they look to add veteran leadership to a team that so desperately needs it.

Meanwhile, Pacioretty is from Connecticut with ties to Michigan, so it would only make sense that he would want to come to Detroit and finish his career there.

For now, the Leafs are just going to have to wait and see. Negotiations with Pacioretty don't seem to be ongoing right now. Instead, both sides are waiting for July 1st.

There are other older players the Leafs could go after, such as Corey Perry. Although Perry may prove to be a bit too expensive.

Hopefully, the Leafs can figure out what to do next, as this offseason is going to be a bit of a difficult one.

Ultimately, general manager Brad Treliving is not in an enviable position, and we certainly empathize with him.