Last year, Bertuzzi was traded from the Boston Bruins to the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for a one-year contract worth approximately $5.5 million. During his time with the Maple Leafs, he had a respectable season, accumulating 43 points in 80 games.
While there is a strong likelihood that he will re-sign with Toronto, there is also a possibility that he may explore other options in free agency. Yzerman has expressed his desire to acquire an impactful forward for Detroit's top six, someone who can contribute offensively while also providing defensive stability. He emphasized the team's need for offensive production and acknowledged the void left when Bertuzzi was absent from the lineup.
Whether it's another centerman or an impact forward in a different position, Yzerman is determined to fill that gap and bolster the team's offensive capabilities. There is one thing for certain, the Detroit faithful would love to see this guy back in a red and white sweater.