Nine-Year Defenseman Brett Pesce Signs with the Devils

Even if his career scoring stats have not been particularly impressive, nine-year defenseman Brett Pesce has made a name for himself on the ice as a fierce competitor.  Since entering the NHL, Pesce has gained a reputation for being a dependable physical presence for his club that makes opponents watch their back and has the ability to mentor the league's future defenseman. As Pesce's six-year contract with the Carolina Hurricanes was coming to an end, he was set to become a free agent following the team's second-round playoff exit last season. Now, according to The Athletic’s Chris Johnston, the New Jersey Devils have signed Pesce to a six-year deal, worth $5.5 million each season.  

After three seasons of collegiate hockey at the University of New Hampshire, Pesce was taken by the Hurricanes in the third round of the 2013 NHL Draft. Pesce finished his college career with the Wildcats with 11 goals, 32 assists, and 43 points. After making his NHL debut in 2015–16, Pesce went on to establish himself as a strong member of the Hurricanes' defensive lineup. He contributed to the blue line consistently throughout the course of his Hurricanes career, having played in 65 or more games in seven of his nine seasons with Carolina. Pesce has amassed 198 points, 39 goals, and 159 assists over the course of his career.  

With a plus/minus rating of +10 while on the ice, Pesce finished last season with three goals, 10 assists, and 13 points in 70 games played. Pesce scored a multi-goal game, two points, and five shots on goal on January 13th against the Pittsburgh Penguins, marking his finest outing of the season. Now that Pesce is signed, the Devils will get an esteemed defenseman who will provide the necessary physicality when the playoffs roll around. As they compete for the Stanley Cup in the upcoming season, the Devils will benefit from Pesce's seasoned experience.