The New Jersey Devils have secured the services of defenseman Brett Pesce, as the two parties agreed to terms on a substantial six-year contract. The deal is worth a total of $33,000,000, with an annual average value of $5,500,000.

Pesce, who has spent the past nine seasons with the Carolina Hurricanes, brings a wealth of experience and skill to the Devils' blue line. Last season, he played an average of 20 minutes and 17 seconds per game, contributing 13 points (3 goals and 10 assists) in 70 regular-season games. Standing tall at 6'3" and weighing 205 pounds, Pesce recorded an impressive 113 blocks, ranking second on Carolina's roster in the 2023-24 season.

Throughout his career, Pesce has proven to be a consistent performer, notching a career-high 30 points in the 2022-23 campaign. Additionally, his plus/minus rating of +92 positions him as the second-best defenseman in Carolina's franchise history in that regard. With 198 points (39 goals and 159 assists) in 627 NHL games, Pesce's offensive contributions are well-established.

The Tarrytown, New York native made his NHL debut on October 24, 2015, and has been a staple on the Hurricanes' blue line ever since. He ranks third in Carolina's franchise history among defensemen for games played and is tied for the highest plus/minus rating in a single season by a Carolina defenseman (+35 in 2018-19).

Pesce's impact hasn't been limited to the regular season, as he has showcased his ability in the Stanley Cup Playoffs as well. He has appeared in 57 postseason games over five appearances, accruing 21 points (5 goals and 16 assists). In both 2019 and 2023, Pesce helped guide the Hurricanes to the Eastern Conference Finals, highlighting his ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations.

The 29-year-old defenseman was selected by Carolina in the third round of the 2013 NHL Draft, and his 57 playoff games and 627 regular-season games rank fifth among defensemen chosen in that draft class. Interestingly, Pesce previously played alongside current Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton and forward Erik Haula during his tenure with the Hurricanes.

Before his professional career, Pesce played three seasons at the University of New Hampshire, where he contributed 43 points in 110 games. His impressive skill set and performance at the collegiate level eventually led to his selection by the Hurricanes in the NHL Draft.

Having played youth hockey in New Jersey and with experience at the triple AAA level with the North Jersey Avalanche, Pesce's return to his home state to suit up for the Devils adds an extra layer of excitement for both the player and the fans.

With his solid defensive play, offensive contributions, and postseason experience, Pesce's arrival promises to bolster the Devils' lineup for years to come. The six-year contract signifies the team's belief in his abilities and their commitment to building a competitive roster.

As the Devils look to make a mark in the upcoming seasons, Brett Pesce's signing is a significant step in their pursuit of success on the ice.