Tyler Bertuzzi’s name is back in the rumour mill—and so is Toronto’s potential interest. After just one season with the Chicago Blackhawks, the 30-year-old forward could be a buyout candidate. If that happens, the Maple Leafs should at least consider a reunion.

Late-Season Surge Shows Bertuzzi Still Has Game

Bertuzzi’s lone year in Chicago didn’t go as planned. He posted 45 points in 81 games—a respectable total—but finished with a minus-39 rating and never seemed to find a consistent role. That said, he heated up late in the season, putting up 11 points in his final 14 games and showing flashes of the gritty, opportunistic play that made him effective in Toronto. He still registered 131 shots, 60 hits, and 51 penalty minutes, reminding teams he can bring energy and edge when used wisely.

His stint with the Maple Leafs in the 2023-24 season wasn’t perfect, but it ended on a high note. Bertuzzi scored 21 goals and finished with 43 points, similar to 2024-25, most of which came in the back half of the campaign. He clicked with Auston Matthews down the stretch, playing a hard-nosed net-front style that added much-needed bite to the top six. While there were stretches of inconsistency, Bertuzzi’s work ethic and willingness to get to the dirty areas helped give Toronto a more physical presence.

Why a Bertuzzi Maple Leafs’ Reunion Could Make Sense Under Berube

With Mitch Marner’s future uncertain and depth forwards like Calle Järnkrok and David Kämpf rumoured to be on the move, Toronto will need to retool its forward group. A short-term, low-cost Bertuzzi reunion wouldn’t be a headline move, but it could be smart. He’s a known quantity, comfortable in the market, and fits Craig Berube’s high-compete, north-south hockey vision.

Smart Maple Leafs Bets Matter in an Uncertain Summer

Re-signing Bertuzzi won’t solve all of the Maple Leafs’ problems. But in a summer full of major decisions and potential roster turnover, finding affordable players who already understand the expectations—and can deliver at both ends of the rink—might be more valuable than ever. If he hits the open market, Bertuzzi should at least get a call.

Related: Three Reasons the Maple Leafs Should Re-Sign Pontus Holmberg