Maple Leafs Rumors: Latest on Tyler Bertuzzi's Future

Tyler Bertuzzi is one of the more notable players who can hit the free agent market this offseason. Both the gritty winger and the Original Six club have established that they want to keep their relationship going, and now they have taken a step in the right direction that could help make that come to fruition.

According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, the Maple Leafs and Bertuzzi have officially begun contract discussions. However, he also made sure to note that it is too early to project what will come from them.

Seeing that the Maple Leafs and Bertuzzi are now having contract talks is not surprising in the slightest. As noted above, both sides are interested in getting a new deal done. However, Bertuzzi also ended the year on a high note and would be a hot commodity if he hits free agency, so he will want what he feels is fair value.

Bertuzzi found a spot in the Maple Leafs’ top six this season after a slow start to the campaign. He picked up his play down the stretch, as he provided solid offensive production to go along with plenty of grit. As a result, it is not shocking in the slightest that the Maple Leafs are beginning to have negotiations with him.

It will now be very interesting to see what happens with Bertuzzi and the Maple Leafs from here. This is something that hockey fans will be keeping a close eye on as we get closer to July 1.