Brett Pesce, a staple on the Carolina Hurricanes’ blue line, is hitting the free agency market this summer after nine seasons with the team that drafted him. Known for his steady defensive play and reliability, Pesce has been an integral part of the Hurricanes’ defense corps, contributing to their success with his strong positioning and ability to shut down opposing forwards. As he enters free agency, numerous teams are expected to vie for his services, eager to add his experience and defensive prowess to their rosters.

Pesce had a career low in points last season with 13 in 70 games (3 goals and 10 assists). However, given his defensive playstyle and his role on the Hurricanes, the value in the defender is not represented in his production.

The defender also missed most of the 2024 NHL playoffs due to an injury that kept him out since game two of the first round against the New York Islanders.

The 29 year old is one of the top, if not the top defenseman on the UFA market this year. Given market dyanmics, we predict that he would likely $6.5 million per year for seven years is a fair value for the defenseman.

Toronto Maple Leafs

A team that has lacked a table shut down defenseman for years, Toronto look to be the front runners for the right-shot defenceman. With main stays like Brodie and Giordano leaving, there is a gap that needs to be filled, and Pesce can be the one to do it.

Dallas Stars

After coming so close to another cup final, the Stars will be looking to see how they can continue to contend for long for the cup in the near future. Given their extremely deep offence, and finding their franchise goalie in Jake Oettinger, the only other place to upgrade would be the defence. Adding Pesce solidifies the Stars’ blue line.

Nashville Predators

With Tyson Barrie also likely hitting the UFA market, the Predators will be looking to fill that gap with a stable shutdown defenseman. Pesce, being a right-handed defenseman who excels in shutdown play, would provide their franchise left-handed superstar, Roman Josi, with the perfect partner to play alongside.

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