Former Golden Knights Star Returns to Las Vegas for Frozen Four

Max Pacioretty takes on new role with Michigan hockey team for NCAA championship tournament

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:09am

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A cubist, fractured painting depicting the dynamic motion and action of a hockey game, with players, pucks, and equipment broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes of color.The vibrant, geometric energy of college hockey's biggest stage comes alive in Las Vegas, the new home of the Frozen Four tournament.Las Vegas Today

Max Pacioretty, a former forward for the Vegas Golden Knights, is back in Las Vegas this week as a special assistant to the head coach for the Michigan hockey team, which has advanced to the Frozen Four NCAA championship tournament.

Why it matters

Pacioretty's return to Las Vegas as part of the Michigan coaching staff highlights his continued involvement in hockey after retiring as a player. It also showcases Las Vegas' growing prominence as a hockey destination, hosting major college and professional tournaments.

The details

In his first season as a special assistant coach, Pacioretty is helping guide the Michigan Wolverines as they compete in the Frozen Four, the NCAA's championship tournament for Division I men's ice hockey. The Frozen Four is being held at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, the home arena of the Golden Knights where Pacioretty played for four seasons before retiring.

  • The 2026 Frozen Four tournament is taking place April 10-12 in Las Vegas.
  • Pacioretty joined the Michigan hockey coaching staff at the start of the 2025-26 season.

The players

Max Pacioretty

A former forward for the Vegas Golden Knights who is now serving as a special assistant coach for the Michigan hockey team.

Michigan Wolverines

The college hockey team from the University of Michigan that has advanced to the 2026 Frozen Four tournament in Las Vegas.

Vegas Golden Knights

The NHL team based in Las Vegas, Nevada where Pacioretty played for four seasons before retiring.

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What they’re saying

“It's great to be back in Vegas for such an important tournament. The city has really embraced hockey, and I'm excited to help guide my team to a championship here.”

— Max Pacioretty, Special Assistant Coach, Michigan Hockey

What’s next

The Frozen Four semifinals will take place on April 10, with the championship game scheduled for April 12 at T-Mobile Arena.

The takeaway

Pacioretty's return to Las Vegas as part of the Michigan coaching staff demonstrates how the city has become a hub for elite hockey, hosting major college and professional tournaments that attract top talent from across the sport.