Michael Pezzetta is coming home.
The Toronto-born left winger finalized a two-year deal worth $1.575 million with the Maple Leafs on July 1, marking his return after having spent his entire NHL career with Montreal. The 27-year-old appeared on Tuesday`s episode of the JD Bunkis Podcast, where he spoke about how the signing unfolded and what it means to him to play for his hometown team.
“My agent was just talking to Toronto, come free agency, and it just kind of happened fast,” Pezzetta shared. “Once I found that out and I had the opportunity to go there, it was hard to pass up on that. It’s been my dream to put that sweater on my whole life.”
While some players might have concerns about playing for their hometown franchise, especially in a market as intense as Toronto, Pezzetta had no reservations. He believes his time spent in Montreal prepared him well.
“Montreal is obviously a big market too – so coming here, you’re kind of used to that pressure,” the forward commented. “At the end of the day, whether you’re a Maple Leaf or a Hab, it comes with a responsibility, and it comes with pressure, and I’m just excited for that.”
His experience dealing with pressure has taught Pezzetta how to balance his passion and intense approach to the game.
“I wear my heart on my sleeve, and when I go out there, I want to win, and I’m competitive, and that’s just in my DNA,” Pezzetta stated. “I worked hard for my spot, and I’m fighting to keep my spot, so my intensity comes from that and wanting to win. Through that intensity you get to win, you get to have fun with your friends and your teammates, and (you get to) enjoy big moments.”
Pezzetta`s intense style has resulted in him being involved in a notable number of fights. While this aspect of the sport isn`t universally popular, the winger sees it as a necessary part of playing the game.
“I play the game hard and finish hits sometimes that result in someone fighting you. It’s guys policing each other,” Pezzetta explained. “If you see someone do that to your teammate, I’m just somebody that you get this burning feeling inside that you’re like, ‘I got to go do something about that’ – I’m definitely not scared of anybody.”
In his 200 career NHL games, Pezzetta has recorded 15 goals and 38 points, alongside a significant 710 hits.
Neville Woodall