Detroit Red Wings: Taking a Look at Tyler Bertuzzi

DETROIT, MI - APRIL 07: Detroit Red Wings forward Tyler Bertuzzi (59) tries to score against New York Islanders goalie Thomas Greiss, of Germany, (1) during the third period of a regular season NHL hockey game between the New York Islanders and the Detroit Red Wings on April 7, 2018, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. New York defeated Detroit 4-3 in overtime. (Photo by Scott W. Grau/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI - APRIL 07: Detroit Red Wings forward Tyler Bertuzzi (59) tries to score against New York Islanders goalie Thomas Greiss, of Germany, (1) during the third period of a regular season NHL hockey game between the New York Islanders and the Detroit Red Wings on April 7, 2018, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. New York defeated Detroit 4-3 in overtime. (Photo by Scott W. Grau/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Promoted from the Grand Rapids Griffins, halfway through last season Detroit Red Wings forward Tyler Bertuzzi impressed. Heading into his first full season with the Wings “Bert” is ready to take flight.

Tyler Bertuzzi is strong on his skates and wins puck battles regularly. Bertuzzi is excellent in front of the net and has opened lanes for his preseason linemates Dylan Larkin and Anthony Mantha. He has brought flexibility to the Detroit Red Wings line-up.

Bertuzzi plays with a lot of grit. He is not afraid to be a pest. Something the young Red Wings need. With his skill-set, Tyler can play on the top line or the grind line. Not only that but he is happy to play wherever he is needed.

For a young player, Tyler Bertuzzi knows what is expected of him. No matter the situations coaches know they can count on him. His time with the Griffins and winning a Calder Cup with them has given him the insight to understand what his role is.

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Bertuzzi’s hard-nosed, chippy style of play can do nothing but help his teammates do their job. Tyler can stand in front of the net and tip in shots or block the goalie from seeing the puck in time. He is not easily moved. His swagger is contagious.

I believe if he continues to play on the top line with Larkin and Mantha that line will be lethal. Larkin can use his speed Mantha has size and Bertuzzi, well he can make it all work. Red Wings fans can expect big things from Tyler this season.

7 goals, 24 points in 48 games last season felt like a tease. Tyler Bertuzzi is an impact player. He is a guy fans can get behind, and his teammates love. There is something else. Tyler Bertuzzi is the Detroit Red Wings best two-way forward.

Tyler takes on other teams best players and puts them in the boards. He is wicked on the forecheck, and his board work is excellent. Last season he had a two-goal performance against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Doing nothing but raising expectations.

This is part of the rebuild I like. Watching a talent as Bertuzzi grows into his role. Opening spots for his linemates to use their skill. Tyler Bertuzzi is precisely the kind of player the Detroit Red Wings need more of. I expect Tyler to have a big season and cement himself as a fan favorite for some time to come.