The Toronto Maple Leafs and Nashville Predators are eyeing star defenseman Brett Pesce this summer.
He turned down a deal earlier this year from the Carolina Hurricanes so now he's looking for something even better.
Pesce, is getting some early attention from several teams. And with Carolina exploring other options, it's starting to look like he might not be coming back.
Should Pesce decides to hit the open market, the Leafs and Preds are ready to pounce.
According to David Pagnotta over at The Fourth Period, both teams have their sights set on him, especially since Nashville tried to snag him in a trade last summer.
The Leafs and Predators are expected to be leading favorites in the race for Brett Pesce this summer.
It was reported that he was offered a deal around 5x5 earlier this year but declined. So, it's expected he'll get slightly more than what was offered.
[via: @TheFourthPeriod ]
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Circling back to Pesce, he will be a player both Nashville and Toronto pursue if he's available July 1. Clearly, there will be other potential suitors, but the Predators and Maple Leafs will go after him if they can. Remember, Nashville tried to trade for him last summer.
Pesce been putting in over 20 minutes a game for eight straight seasons! While his offensive numbers dipped a last season, but the 29 year-old has more to offer as he enters his prime.
He's steady, reliable, and a lock for that top-four spot. So, whoever lands him, they're getting a solid defenseman who's ready to make a difference.