Top Toronto Maple Leafs target Brett Pesce signed by New Jersey Devils

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Aaron Itovitch
July 1, 2024 (10:28)

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It was announced today that the New jersey Devils have signed defensive defenseman Brett Pesce to a six-year deal, screwing over the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The Toronto Maple Leafs and general manager Brad Treliving have been focused on adding defense via trades or free agency, and one top target was strong defensively-minded Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Brett Pesce. Unfortunately, Brett Pesce is expected to sign a six-year, $5.5-million annual deal with the New Jersey Devils, taking him off the market.

When Brett Pesce's free-agent deal is finalized with #NJDevils, it's expected to come in at six years with an AAV in the $5.5M range.

Brett Pesce, signed 6x$5.5M by NJ, is a top four D who shuts down passing lanes close to the net, helps his team advance the puck up the ice, and defends the rush as aggressively as anyone in the league. Great PK and keeps the puck out of the slot despite a lack of physicality.

Luckily, the Toronto Maple Leafs may have dodged a bullet, as analytics suggest Brett Pesce may lose value quickly as he ages:

Brett Pesce will sign with New Jersey today. Details are not confirmed yet, but it sounds like it's for 5 years with an AAV of $~6.125M. And I wouldn't like this contract to be honest. I believe Pesce will be good for two, maybe even three years. But then? I'm not sure.

With Chris Tanev expected to sign, and possible offers coming for Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Nikita Zadorov, the new-look Toronto Maple Leafs will not include Brett Pesce, which may be a good thing.

Credit House of Hockey:
Brett Pesce signs a massive 6-year deal with Metropolitan rival