Carolina Hurricanes Rumors: A New Turn In Brett Pesce Trade Talks

Rumors had been rampant of trade talks surrounding Carolina Hurricanes' eight-year veteran D-man Brett Pesce. With contract talks dragging, word had it that the Buffalo Sabres were in discussions to land the top-four blueliner in advance of the final year of his contract.

But according to NHL Insider Pierre LeBrun, things appear to have taken another turn, as the 'Canes are definitely leaning toward getting an extension done for their homegrown talent.

The #LetsGoCanes are looking more and more likely to extend D Brett Pesce as contract talks have advanced in the past few days.

Buffalo #LetsGoBuffalo has been in contact with them regarding the defenseman#NHL | #HockeyTwitter pic.twitter.com/ycLL0TLD8w

— The Hockey Hotline (@HotlineHockey) June 24, 2023

LeBrun reports that Pesce's camp and the Hurricanes have been working on a new deal over the past week, and with contract talks advancing, "it's looking more likely that he gets extended" rather than traded. 

The report also notes that the Sabres weren't the only team contacting Carolina about the 28-year-old defenseman, saying that "several" clubs have shown interest. 

He also adds that if extension talks do stall, it's still possible that Pesce could be moved. But for now, he's got Carolina on his mind. 

And if his exit interview was any indication, they'll continue to work hard on this. “I want to be here my whole career," Pesce said after the season. "Raleigh's my home... we’ve got it good here. The weather, the community, the team, the coaching staff, everything. It’s just an unbelievable place.”

Pesce has been a mainstay on the Hurricanes' blueline for eight years now, and a solid "plus" in plus-minus ratings in each of the last five seasons, including a plus-11 this past year, to go along with 30 points in 80 games (22:01 TOI). 

Photo: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports