Michael Pezzetta is already making his presence felt after signing with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2025 NHL free agency. The Toronto native recently visited the Maple Leafs youth hockey camp, connecting with young fans and showing his commitment to the community. As Pezzetta begins his journey with the Leafs, his hometown roots are already shining through.
Michael Pezzetta signs two-year, $1.625 million deal with Maple Leafs
Pezzetta joined the Toronto Maple Leafs on the opening day of NHL free agency, signing a two-year contract worth $1.625 million. The deal carries an average annual value of $812,500. After spending his entire career with the Montreal Canadiens, who drafted him 160th overall in 2016, Pezzetta brings 200 games of NHL experience, with 15 goals and 23 assists.He’s expected to add physicality and depth to Toronto’s bottom-six forward group. Known for his high energy and gritty playing style, Pezzetta fits the profile of a reliable depth piece, especially for a team looking to add more toughness and identity to its lineup.
Toronto native connects with kids at Maple Leafs Hockey School
Shortly after signing, Pezzetta visited the Maple Leafs’ youth hockey camp in Toronto. The camp, run by the organization’s development team, hosts beginner and recreational-level players. Pezzetta spent time with the young athletes, signed their jerseys, and spoke about what it means to return home and play for the team he grew up cheering for.“I know my mom’s super excited that I get to stay home,” Pezzetta told reporters. “All my friends and family are Leafs fans. And they’re so excited.”Other Leafs players, including Morgan Rielly, Scott Laughton, and Bobby McMann also visited the camp this summer. In past years, stars like John Tavares, Chris Tanev, and Joseph Woll have also taken part, showing the organization’s continued investment in community outreach.FAQsWhat role will Michael Pezzetta play with the Toronto Maple Leafs?Michael Pezzetta is expected to serve as a bottom-six forward, providing energy, physicality, and depth to the Maple Leafs’ lineup. He brings experience from his time with the Montreal Canadiens and fits Toronto’s need for a gritty, hard-working presence.How much is Michael Pezzetta’s contract with the Maple Leafs worth?Pezzetta signed a two-year, $1.625 million contract with the Maple Leafs during the 2025 NHL free agency period. His annual average salary cap hit is $812,500.What is the Maple Leafs Youth Hockey School?The Maple Leafs Youth Hockey School is a two-week development camp for beginner and recreational-level players. It focuses on improving hockey fundamentals, off-ice fitness, and team-building, while also offering appearances from Maple Leafs players and alumni.Also Read: Matvei Michkov recalls NHL debut felt like playing on PlayStation, Flyers star eyes big 2025-26 season
Maple Leafs continue strong community presence
The two-week hockey school allows kids of all skill levels to improve on-ice abilities while participating in off-ice training, team-building, and guest seminars. The involvement of current Leafs players creates memorable experiences and helps inspire the next generation of hockey players in Toronto.
