Pesce is an experienced addition to a club that has plenty of young players in defense with Luke Hughes and Simon Nemec. His experience, especially his 57 playoff games, will be a huge asset to the inexperienced defensemen.

“I've been through a lot, a lot with the playoffs, a lot of ups and downs, my first three years (at Carolina) weren't very good,” he said. “I know what it takes to be a good team, to make the playoffs and to be good in the playoffs.”

Pesce will train in Connecticut this summer, as he has for the past 11 years. He works with several other NHL players including Shayne Gostisbehere, Chris Kreider, Trevor Zegras, Kevin Shattenkirk and Jonathan Quick.

But with the Devils players returning to the Prudential Center this summer, Pesce will change his commute to a 45-minute drive to The Rock.

“I'm excited and can't wait to get started. I know how good this team is,” he said. “I played against them in the playoffs two years ago. They have top-notch forwards. You can't just teach them what they can do. They're young. The future is bright with this team.”

“I also know how passionate the fans are. The fan base is great. It's not fun being on the opposing side. I'm looking forward to coming to the Prudential Center and hearing the crowd cheer.”