Detroit Red Wings forward Tyler Bertuzzi didn’t have much of a chance to make an impact with the team last year, as he was felled by a high ankle sprain, and then suffered wrist inflammation during this year’s training camp.
However, those injuries seem to be but happy memories for Bertuzzi and the Red Wings now, as he’s going to be getting the chance to showcase his abilities on a more long-term basis.
Tyler Bertuzzi has been told to get a place. Sticking with Red Wings.
— Helene St. James (@HeleneStJames) January 2, 2018
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With three assists in his past three games with Detroit, Bertuzzi has brought a noticeable impact to the team since being called up from the Grand Rapids Griffins. Head coach Jeff Blashill attested to Bertuzzi’s strengths and what he’s brought to the team so far.
“Bert’s one of those players that plays winning-type hockey,” Blashill explained. “He lays pucks down the wall when he needs to, but he doesn’t just throw the puck away. He can hold on to it. He’s got belief that he can fend-off checkers. He’s tough. He’s not afraid to get hit, so he’s got a little more time with the puck and he makes the right play. He goes to the net hard.”
“That’s how Hank is, that’s why Hank always seems to have great second halves, because the harder the hockey, the better he is,” Blashill continued. “They just know how to play when the space gets even tighter. Bert does that. Bert goes to to the net hard, Bert gets pucks out on the wall, but he’s smart enough to play with real good players. So I think he is a good piece.”
With forward Luke Glendening expected to miss up to a month with a hand injury, Bertuzzi will be looking to make the most of his opportunity.
“I bring energy to that line, and if I can get on the forecheck early and create some space for those guys, my opportunities are going to come,” Bertuzzi said.
