The Toronto Maple Leafs are likely to set their sights on Brett Pesce

The Athletic's Luke Fox has revealed this intriguing possibility, but there's a significant complication. Pesce, 29, has been sidelined since Game 2 of the first round due to a lower-body injury, speculated to be an ankle sprain.

Pesce has been in a walking boot since the second-round matchup against the New York Rangers began and has only recently started skating again. With the series already extending to five games and set to conclude this weekend—with Game 6 on Thursday in Raleigh and a potential Game 7 in Manhattan on Saturday—Pesce's return to the ice seems unlikely. The Hurricanes are aiming to become the fifth team in NHL history to overcome a 3-0 series deficit, but they may have to do it without their defensive stalwart.

Toronto GM Brad Treliving would need to thoroughly evaluate Pesce's foot injury, even if it's fully healed by July 1st, before making any moves. During the regular season, Pesce was a key player for the Hurricanes. He blocked 113 shots and ranked fourth in ice time per game, averaging about 20:17. Additionally, he contributed three goals and 13 points over 70 games.

Pesce is nearing the end of a six-year contract he signed in 2017, with a $4.025 million cap hit for the 2022-23 season and no trade protection. This makes him an attractive option for teams in need of a reliable defenseman.

As Pesce approaches free agency, he's expected to command a significant raise, potentially securing a deal worth $5-6 million. For a top right-shot defenseman in the NHL, this is a solid investment. The question remains: will the Maple Leafs be the team to make this investment?

Pesce's ability to bolster the Leafs' defense could be invaluable, but his recent injury raises concerns. If Toronto decides to pursue him, they must ensure he's fully recovered and ready to perform at his best. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Brett Pesce will don the blue and white next season.