New Leafs Winger Michael Pezzetta Reveals Why He Chose Toronto Over Other UFA Offers
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton - Imagn Images
Despite receiving several offers from different teams, recently acquired Michael Pezzetta explains his decision for choosing the Maple Leafs as his new NHL club.
It took a little while for the Toronto Maple Leafs to make their first move once the clock struck noon to kick off the beginning of free agency on Tuesday.
While Brad Treliving was working the phones for top-6 help, he threw his a feeler out towards a feisty forward and came out of it with Michael Pezzetta on a 2-year contract.
The former Montreal Canadiens forward is known for his physicality and the ability to drop the gloves to give his team a much needed jolt of energy. His impact was muted this past season, but in the previous 3 years, Pezzetta played in 175 games, scored 15 goals and 38 points, while adding 217 PIMs and 637 hits in 8:21 ATOI.
The 27-year-old is going to do everything he can to crack the roster, but he might have a few more reasons to do so, considering he grew up as a Leafs fan and idolizing the legendary Mats Sundin.
"Mats Sundin was always my favourite player. I wore number 13 my whole life, and it was just special. It's just such a special feeling, and I'm so happy and blessed to be given this opportunity."
Pezzetta also mentioned on Wednesday that he understands the responsibilities that come with playing in a big market, having felt that in Montreal, and how excited he is to play in front the Leafs faithful.
"When you put that sweater on and go on the ice, you have a responsibility to play as hard as you can and give everything you've got. At the end of the day, it's about winning and bringing a Cup back to your city. That's something I'm ready for and just excited about."
His acquisition should help in the long run, and it might help to know that he chose the Leafs over several other teams that had interest in him - showing his willingness to want to come back home and play for his city, despite the obvious market pressure.
Look for the Toronto-born enforcer to stake his claim to an every day lineup spot during training camp and put his best foot forward this season.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 2 | 3734 ANSWERS New Leafs Winger Michael Pezzetta Reveals Why He Chose Toronto Over Other UFA Offers Does Michael Pezzetta crack the opening night roster? | ||
| Yes | 2520 | 67.5 % |
| No | 1214 | 32.5 % |
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