Michael Pezzetta equates expectations and pressure from Leafs & Canadiens fanbases owing to Canada's 32-year Stanley Cup drought

Michael Pezzetta joined his hometown club, the Toronto Maple Leafs, last month after signing a two-year, $1.625 million contract. Before this, he spent four seasons with the Montreal Canadiens.

The Maple Leafs are the second “Original Six” team Pezzetta will represent in his relatively young career. He acknowledges the responsibility and high expectations that come with playing for such storied franchises and recognizes the challenge of meeting them.

"Now, it’s about putting in the work and earning my spot. I am excited for that. It’s easier to push harder on the bike and in the gym, that’s my happy place, anyway and it lights a fire under you. It’s still surreal," Pezzetta said via NHLPA.

He noted that the atmosphere in Toronto mirrors that of Montreal, both being large markets with intense pressure and lofty expectations, which he attributes to Canada's 32-year Stanley Cup drought.

"It’s the same as Montreal, it is a big market, there is pressure and expectations are high. But that makes sense and that’s what makes it so great to play in these types of cities. I’m embracing every bit of it," he added.

Michael Pezzetta was drafted 160th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2016 NHL draft. He appeared in 200 games for the clubs, racking up 38 points through 15 goals and 23 assists. Last season, the 27-year-old appeared in 25 regular-season games but did not register a point.

Michael Pezzetta reveals his favorite player growing up

Michael Pezzetta revealed in the interview that his favorite player growing up was Toronto Maple Leafs legend Mats Sundin, whom he considered his boyhood idol.

The Leafs forward shared that he had pictures of Sundin in his room and owned his jerseys.

"Mats Sundin was always my favorite player growing up,” said Pezzetta. “I had his pictures in my room, jerseys, things like that. I remember his 500th goal, coming across the blue line and blasting a slap shot home, far side, for the overtime winner and a hat trick. It was a great memory.”

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Growing up idolizing former @MapleLeafs captain Mats Sundin and chasing down NHL stars, Toronto-born Michael Pezzetta is eager to hit the ice with his childhood team this October ⤵️

Sundin served as Maple Leafs captain from 1997 to 2008, making him the longest-serving captain in franchise history. He finished his career as the club's all-time leader in goals (420) and points (987).