Maple Leafs Rumors: Insider Links Toronto To Brett Pesce This Summer


This upcoming offseason, all eyes will be on defenseman Brett Pesce as he emerges as a potential target linked to the Toronto Maple Leafs by sports analyst Luke Fox.

With key blueliners such as Joel Edmundson, Ilya Lyubushkin, and TJ Brodie set to depart, the Leafs are in dire need of bolstering their defensive lineup.

Pesce, a 29-year-old defenseman from the Carolina Hurricanes, presents an enticing option with his solid defensive skills and experience.

Pesce's impending free agency status has sparked interest not only from the Maple Leafs but also from several other NHL teams. As his current contract nears its end, Pesce could become a highly sought-after asset in the offseason market.

Pesce is in the final year of a 6-year, $24.15M contract.

Despite potential competition, Toronto's projected cap space of $20.7 million for the 2024-25 season positions them as strong contenders in the pursuit of Pesce.

This season, he has scored three goals and nine assists for 12 total points, a +8 plus/minus rating, and 99 blocked shots over 59 games played.

Should Pesce become available in the open market, Toronto's General Manager Brad Treliving will likely make a compelling case for the defenseman's services.

Pesce's consistent performance and defensive prowess make him an attractive addition for a team aiming to fortify its blue line for the upcoming season.

Over the past six seasons, Pesce has amassed 30 goals, 112 assists, 142 total points, a +80 plus/minus rating, and 612 blocked shots across 400 games played. Photo Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports