The Toronto Maple Leafs have finalized a two-year contract with forward Michael Pezzetta, agreeing on a deal with an average annual value of $787,500, as reported by TSN’s Bob McKenzie. This move comes as part of the team’s broader offseason changes aimed at strengthening their roster ahead of the new NHL season.
Pezzetta’s Performance and Career Overview
Pezzetta, who spent the 2024-25 season with the Montreal Canadiens, compiled 24 penalty minutes across 25 games. Over his four NHL seasons, he has accumulated 15 goals and 23 assists, totaling 38 points, while also registering 241 penalty minutes in 200 regular-season games. In addition to his NHL experience, Pezzetta has played 115 AHL games with the Laval Rocket, scoring 13 goals and 12 assists and adding 186 penalty minutes.
Drafted in the sixth round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, Pezzetta previously played four seasons in the Ontario Hockey League with the Sudbury Wolves and Sarnia Sting. During his time there, he recorded 48 goals, 63 assists, and 321 penalty minutes over 241 regular-season contests, showcasing both his offensive capabilities and physical presence on the ice.
Maple Leafs’ Recent Season and Roster Moves
In the 2024-25 campaign, the Maple Leafs posted a 52-26-4 record, securing the Atlantic Division title with 108 points. They advanced past the Ottawa Senators in the first playoff round but were ultimately eliminated in a seven-game series by the Florida Panthers, who went on to win the Stanley Cup.
Amid this offseason, Toronto made headline moves, including signing star player Mitch Marner to an eight-year contract worth $12 million annually, only to trade him to the Vegas Golden Knights for Nic Roy. This strategic trade allowed the Maple Leafs to gain a valuable asset in exchange for potentially losing Marner without compensation while adding depth at center for their top nine forwards.
Implications of the Pezzetta Signing and Team Outlook
Securing Michael Pezzetta on a two-year deal reflects the Maple Leafs’ commitment to reinforcing their forward lineup with a player known for grit and versatility. Pezzetta’s blend of experience in both the NHL and AHL, combined with his physical style, provides Toronto with a dependable depth option. This signing, alongside other roster adjustments, signals the team’s cautious yet hopeful approach as it aims to build a competitive squad for the upcoming season.