5 Million AAV

In a move that was the worst-kept secret of the offseason, the New Jersey Devils have officially signed defenseman Brett Pesce to a six-year contract, with an average annual value (AAV) of $5.5 million. The signing comes as no surprise, especially after the team traded John Marino to Utah during the draft.

Pesce, who was long rumored to be a target for the Devils, brings a valuable combination of size and experience to the team. With the added price of $1.1 million, the Devils hope to bolster their defense and improve their chances of contention. Pesce is known for his formidable presence without the puck and his ability to contribute offensively, making him a clear upgrade over Marino.

With a plus-3 Net Rating, Pesce brings a five-goal swing over Marino, highlighting his impact on the defensive end. The Devils' new coach, Sheldon Keefe, will surely appreciate the addition of Pesce, given his long-standing interest in the defenseman during his tenure with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

One of the key motivations behind this signing was to eliminate redundancies on the team's blue line. While Marino was an excellent puck-mover, the Devils felt they already had enough players with that skill set. They sought out Pesce, who excels at defending passes in the defensive zone, offering a significant improvement over Marino in that aspect.

While Pesce seems like an ideal fit for the Devils' roster, there are some concerns regarding the terms of his contract. While the $5.5 million cap hit is reasonable for his current performance, the six-year term diminishes his overall contract value to around $4.9 million. This aspect of the deal is not favorable for the Devils, as it creates a $600K per year deficit.

Nevertheless, acquiring Pesce underscores the team's commitment to securing the right player, even if it means accepting some financial implications. As a free agent in a market where right-shot defensemen are in high demand, the Devils had to make a strategic move to secure Pesce's services. Regardless of the contract terms, Pesce is expected to make a significant impact on the team and help elevate their performance.

In conclusion, the New Jersey Devils have successfully signed Brett Pesce to a six-year contract worth $5.5 million AAV. While there are concerns about the contract's value, the team believes Pesce is the right player to meet their defensive needs. With his size, experience, and improved defensive abilities, Pesce is anticipated to be a valuable asset for the Devils in their pursuit of success.