We are less than a week away from NHL free agency. The 2023/2024 season is over, which means it’s time to look ahead to next year. For the Buffalo Sabres, it’s going to be a critical offseason for general manager Kevyn Adams. One player who the Sabres should target in free agency is left winger Tyler Bertuzzi. In 80 games played with the Toronto Maple Leafs last season, Bertuzzi scored 21 goals and recorded 22 assists for 43 points. He was also a +2. Adams did say that he wants to add a top six scorer in the offseason and if other options are off the table, Bertuzzi would be the perfect signing.
He is a pain in the neck to play against in addition to his ability to score. Something Buffalo lacks is grit. Bertuzzi’s signing would be a major boost to the grit department. With the Maple Leafs, he only managed one goal and three assists during the postseason. But during his time with the Boston Bruins in 2022–2023, he recorded five goals and five assists.
The Sabres may be able to break through their playoff skid by acquiring a player such as Bertuzzi. Since he began his career with the Detroit Red Wings before moving to Boston and Toronto, he has been in the Atlantic Division. With the Red Wings in 2021–2022, he had his greatest season with 30 goals and 32 assists.
Buffalo has to have a player like Bertuzzi. He has the ability to produce offensively and move his body quickly. It would be a positive move for the Sabres, especially with Tyler joining the team and the current core of players.
Depending on how much budget room Buffalo has, Bertuzzi may likely negotiate a salary comparable to the $5,500,00 he had with Toronto the previous season.
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