Devils Eyeing Key Hurricanes Defenseman in Free Agency
With their goaltender situation resolved, New Jersey Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald is now focusing on strengthening the team’s defense. There is speculation that Fitzgerald might use the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NHL draft as a trade asset. Recently, rumors have linked the Devils to Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Brett Pesce, who is set to become a free agent.
Insider Elliotte Friedman mentioned on the latest 32 Thoughts podcast that the Devils are among the teams interested in Pesce.
This potential move makes sense for the Devils, especially after trading Kevin Bahl in the Jacob Markstrom deal. Fitzgerald has also publicly expressed his intention to bolster the defense, as he mentioned on The Jeff Marek Show last week.
“We’re trying to solidify our back end with more experience, get a little heavier. The things you’re talking about, the things that [Connor] Hellebuyck and the Winnipeg Jets speaks highly of, that’s the game. If the goalie can see the puck, he’s going to stop the puck a lot more.”
Pesce would be a logical addition for the Devils. At 29, it’s unlikely he will remain with Carolina, especially since Hurricanes GM Eric Tulsky is expected to announce a long-term deal for Jaccob Slavin, effectively pricing Pesce out of the team.
Pesce is known for being a solid, two-way defenseman with strong defensive capabilities. He plays a simple game, keeping the puck in front of him, and is physical without compromising his position. On the penalty kill, he excels as a shot blocker and disruptor, often being assigned to top matchups.
After the Markstrom trade, the Devils have $16,048,603 in cap space, with only Dawson Mercer expected to receive a significant raise.
AFP Analytics projects Pesce to receive a five-year contract with a cap hit of $6,283,200.
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