Maple Leafs Add Pezzetta, Three Others in Free Agency

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed forward Michael Pezzetta to a two-year, $1.575 million contract as their first move of NHL free agency, seeking to add physicality to their fourth line. Pezzetta, a Toronto native, played 25 games with the Montreal Canadiens last season, recording no points but 73 hits, and has 38 points in 200 career NHL games. Alongside Pezzetta, the Leafs have also signed Travis Boyd, Benoit-Olivier Groulx, and re-signed Dakota Mermis as part of their effort to add depth and cost-effective options amid salary cap constraints. Pezzetta's signing is expected to signal the likely departure of veteran Ryan Reaves due to limited roster space and cap issues. While Pezzetta is known for his energy and physical play, he may have a fluctuating role in the lineup. These moves aim to bolster the Maple Leafs' roster for a competitive offseason.