2020 All-Star Winger Signs with the Blackhawks
The Boston Bruins eliminated the Toronto Maple Leafs in seven games during their first-round series, but despite the disappointing outcome, winger Tyler Bertuzzi was a key player in Toronto's return to the playoffs and contributed a lot of offensive production. In 80 games played during the previous season, Bertuzzi scored 21 goals, grabbed 22 assists, and scored five goals during the power play. In the first-round series against the Bruins, Bertuzzi recorded a goal, three assists, and four points, continuing his performance from the regular season. With his greatest single-season goal total since the 2021–22 campaign, Bertuzzi was poised for a sizable paycheck as he entered free agency. According to The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta, the Chicago Blackhawks have signed Bertuzzi to a four-year deal for $22 million.
The 29-year-old Bertuzzi began playing hockey in 2011 with the Guelph Storm of the Ontario Hockey League. During his four years in the OHL, Bertuzzi played in 201 games and finished with 72 goals, 100 assists, and 172 points. After leading the Storm in goals scored with 43, assists, and points in his breakout 2014–15 campaign, Bertuzzi inked a three-year entry-level deal with the Detroit Red Wings. Due to injuries, Bertuzzi had ups and downs throughout his first six seasons in the NHL. He played in 50 games or fewer in three of his six seasons with the Red Wings from 2016–22.
Nevertheless, in the six seasons that he spent in Detroit, Bertuzzi scored at least 20 goals in three of those seasons, demonstrating his offensive prowess when he was on the ice. Bertuzzi is entering what many consider to be the prime of his career. With his physicality, scoring touch, and ability to agitate opponents, he adds a unique element to the Blackhawks' winger group. His willingness to go to the dirty areas of the ice and his knack for coming up clutch in key moments make him a valuable addition to the Blackhawks’ roster. Bertuzzi's signing gives the Blackhawks depth and grit, guaranteeing they have all they need to contend for the Stanley Cup next season.
