Tyler Bertuzzi, a former Boston Bruins forward, is one guy that several supporters wish the Original Six club had re-
signed this offseason. However, due to restricted cap space, they were unable to make things work, and the talented
winger signed a one-year contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Bertuzzi’s debut with the Maple Leafs was not ideal, as he struggled offensively and failed to find a place in their
lineup. However, now that he has adjusted to his new squad, he has become an extremely valuable member of their
lineup.
Bertuzzi, 29, is making a noticeable difference offensively for the Maple Leafs, with nine points in his last 11 games.
Aside from delivering the offense, he’s also provided them some much-needed tenacity. For numerous seasons, the
Maple Leafs have faced criticism in this area.
The Bruins may be concerned as Bertuzzi’s performance for the Maple Leafs improves. Depending on how the rest of
the season goes, the Bruins might face the Maple Leafs in the first round of the playoffs. Bertuzzi, as we witnessed
last year with the Bruins, has the ability to elevate his game when it is most needed. He scored five goals and tallied
ten points in seven postseason games with Boston last season.
Nonetheless, it’ll be interesting to watch how Bertuzzi ends the season from here. In 65 games this season, he has 13
goals and 31 points.
