The president is taken aback by the Chicago Blackhawks’ Day 1 splash sign of two very experienced players.
Just over two months ago, Chicago Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson stated at a news conference held to wrap off the season that the team’s previous two seasons’ results—finishing third and second in the NHL—were no longer acceptable. He stated that in order to forward the rebuild, adjustments will be required. He wasn’t telling lies.
Davidson and the Blackhawks made a big statement on the first day of NHL free agency by adding a ton of new players, led by the return of fan favorite Joey Anderson and Blackhawks 2015 Stanley Cup winners Teuvo Teravainen and Tyler Bertuzzi.
Tyler Bertuzzi
There were rumors circulating that the Blackhawks and Tyler Bertuzzi were close to reaching an agreement less than twelve hours before the first day of free agency on July 1. Bertuzzi’s four-year, $5.5 million contract was one of the first confirmed transactions of the day when it was signed the next morning.
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As stated in the news announcement, Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson, “Tyler is a fantastic competitor who brings energy every night.” “He has had sustained success on offense throughout his career, and we anticipate seeing Tyler continue to perform at the high caliber he has demonstrated he is capable of.”
Throughout his career, Bertuzzi has been a contentious player both on and off the ice. While some claim he’s too streaky and commits bad penalties, others like him for his aggressive play style and high output when he’s “on.” The Blackhawks are aiming to get the Bertuzzi who led the Detroit Red Wings in scoring in 68 games (2021–2022), with 30 goals and 62 points. Not too far away. Bertuzzi has averaged 50 points per 82 games in four of his last six NHL seasons. He scored 43 points in 80 games with Toronto last season and appeared in just nine games with Detroit in 2020–21.
