Tyler Bertuzzi Finally Reveals Why He Chose Toronto Over Everyone Else
New addition and Ontario native Tyler Bertuzzi recently opened up on his decision to come to Toronto instead of signing a longer-term deal somewhere else.
Tyler Bertuzzi Opens Up on Decision to Come to Toronto in Media Interview
At the Leafs annual charity golf tournament, Tyler Bertuzzi had his first real Leafs media scrum.
While he seemed a bit timid during his first time with the ever-infamous Toronto media, he did open up about his decision to sign with the Leafs.
"There was a lot of 1-year deals out there and I wanted to be at a place where winning was at the top of [our list], our biggest goal and I know the team has the best chance to make it a long way [in the playoffs], hopefully, and our end goal is to win the Cup... It's close to home too.
[Last year] was my first taste of playoff hockey. That was another reason [why I signed here]. It's the best time of year and it's a lot of fun to play in those situations and to get a feel for that, I wanted to be back in it and continue to be in it every year... I'm excited." - Bertuzzi on why he chose to sign with Toronto in free agency this summer
Bertuzzi was a sought-after free agent this summer, and his decision to play in Toronto is telling on how players feel about the Leafs and their chances to go far.
Bertuzzi Moved to Toronto Weeks Ago, Skating With Matthews among Others
Bertuzzi also gave some details on how his move has been to Toronto and his excitement for camp to start.
"I'm excited. It's been a good couple of weeks - I came [to Toronto] 2 or 3 weeks ago to kind of just meet all the guys, skate and work out... you know, just get to know everyone, so it's been good and I'm just ready to get going." - Bertuzzi on the level of excitement coming into his first camp in Toronto
It is not known where exactly Bertuzzi will fit into the Leafs' current lineup, though he will more than likely get a look on the top line with Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner at some point this pre-season.
Bertuzzi is a top-6 player who would compliment either of the Leafs' first two lines or would provide significant scoring depth if needed on a third line.
As seen on Maple Leafs Daily:
Tyler Bertuzzi responds to media questions before Leafs Golf Classic, reveals why he chose Toronto
POLL |
Where do you think Bertuzzi will slot into the Leafs' lineup? |
1st Line | 540 | 53.6 % |
2nd Line | 300 | 29.8 % |
3rd Line | 67 | 6.6 % |
Probably a mix | 101 | 10 % |
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Previously on HockeyPatrol