Brett Pesce’s Former Teammate Believes He Already Has That New Jersey Style in Him

One of the New Jersey Devils' most significant off-season moves was signing veteran defenseman Brett Pesce to a six-year, $33 million contract.

During a media availability on July 3, Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald confirmed that Pesce, a native of Tarrytown, NY, will shut down the opposing team's top lines when the 2024-25 campaign opens.

A role that Pesce is more than happy to fill.

"I take a lot of pride in playing against other team's top lines and doing my best to shut them down," Pesce said during his introductory media availability.

The 29-year-old finished last season with 113 blocked shots and 13 points (three goals, ten assists) in 70 games. Over the years, Pesce has evolved into a reliable defenseman who can be counted on to play 20 minutes per night and kill penalties.

In a phone call with The Hockey News, former Devil Brendan Smith said he believes his former Carolina Hurricanes teammate will be a perfect fit in New Jersey.

"I think Brett is very underrated because of the Carolina market," Smith said. "Now, I understand more people are getting a feel for how good he is. I think people in Jersey are going to love him."

Pesce and Smith played for the Hurricanes during the 2021-22 season. That year, Carolina finished first in the Metropolitan Division, second in the Eastern Conference, and advanced to the second round of the playoffs.

"I really got along well with (Pesce) when I was in Carolina, so I have nothing but great things to say about him," Smith continued. "If he is not going to be one of the top two defensemen in Jersey, I would be shocked because he is a competitive guy who brings it every night. He is consistent, and in the aspect of sports, consistency is such a big thing. He brings it every day."

After Pesce signed his contract with New Jersey, texts were exchanged between the two blueliners.

"We had a great time in Carolina (even though) it was short-lived. I think New Jersey's going to really enjoy having him there, and I think he will fit perfectly with the organization, all the fans, and the team," Smith said.

"He's got that New Jersey style in him. He grew up in the area, and he's got that feel and understands it."

While Pesce won't reunite with Smith in New Jersey, he will play alongside former Hurricanes teammates Stefan Noesen, Dougie Hamilton , and Erik Haula.

Devils fans will get their first glimpse of Pesce when New Jersey hosts the Toronto Maple Leafs at Prudential Center on October 10.

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