Tyler Bertuzzi: A Prime Target for the Buffalo Sabres
As the NHL free agency period approaches, the Buffalo Sabres face a crucial offseason under general manager Kevyn Adams. With the 2023/2024 season behind us, it’s time to strategize for the upcoming year, and one player the Sabres should consider targeting is left winger Tyler Bertuzzi.
Last season, Bertuzzi played 80 games with the Toronto Maple Leafs, tallying 21 goals and 22 assists for a total of 43 points, along with a +2 rating. Adams has expressed a desire to add a top-six scorer this offseason, and if other options fall through, Bertuzzi would be an excellent choice.
Bertuzzi not only brings scoring ability but also adds a gritty presence that the Sabres currently lack. Signing him would significantly bolster their toughness. During the postseason with the Maple Leafs, he managed one goal and three assists. However, in the 2022/2023 season with the Boston Bruins, he recorded five goals and five assists.
To break their playoff drought, the Sabres need a player like Bertuzzi. With experience in the Atlantic Division, having played for the Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, and Toronto Maple Leafs, his familiarity with the competition is a plus. His standout season was in 2021/2022 with the Red Wings, where he scored 30 goals and 32 assists.
Bertuzzi is precisely the type of player Buffalo requires, contributing offensively and providing physicality. His addition, alongside the current core players, would be a significant step forward for the Sabres.
With a cap hit of $5,500,000 with Toronto last season, Buffalo could likely sign him to a similar contract, depending on their cap space.
Leave a Reply