Brett Pesce discusses why he forwent Canes extension – Source: Getty

After spending the first nine years of his NHL career with the Carolina Hurricanes, defenseman Brett Pesce made the decision to sign a lucrative six-year, $33 million contract (spotrac.com) with the New Jersey Devils on July 1st.

Pesce explained his thought process behind leaving Carolina during an appearance on Morning Cuppa Hockey on Wednesday.

“I loved my time in Carolina. They were my first choice, obviously, if everything worked out. From a financial standpoint, it did not work, which is fine; it is all good; it is the nature of the beast,” Pesce said.

“I wanted to be home. I am a homebody. My family is from here – grandparents, friends, you name it.” he added.

Pesce went into detail about why joining the Devils was an easy decision for him.

“Then I looked at the Devils. I looked at their roster, how young they are, how talented they are. Then I saw they got [Jacob] Markstrom, and I was just like, wow, they are good,” he continued. “They are so young, so they are only going to get better. When they were calling, it was a no-brainer for me.”

Pesce was first picked 66th overall by the Hurricanes in 2013. He has since participated more than 600 matches for Carolina, contributing to their five playoff appearances.

Brett Pesce Talks about new coach of the New Jersey Devils Sheldon Keefe

Brett Pesce said he feels comfortable knowing everyone will be on equal footing at training camp under the new coach, Sheldon Keefe.

“My agent, Judd Moldaver, is super close with Keefe and has had nothing but good things to say. To be honest, that also influences your decisions, too. If the coach has a good reputation, it makes your life a lot easier to play for him, and you will want to play for him.” Pesce remarked.

He went on to say:

“Keefe and I have already had some good talks about how we’re both coming into this new situation together.”

Brett Pesce and the Devils are set to start the 2024-25 season in Prague as part of the NHLs Global Series. Their first home game at Prudential Center will be on October 10th against the Toronto Maple Leafs.