Bruins Leak Their Plans With Bertuzzi and Hathaway

PUBLICATION

Austin Sabourin
June 24, 2023 (4:51)

SHARE THIS STORY

In his exhilarating debut in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, scrappy forward Tyler Bertuzzi showcased his talent for the Boston Bruins, recording an impressive tally of five goals and five assists.

Despite his outstanding performance, the Bruins suffered an unexpected defeat in a thrilling seven-game series against the Florida Panthers, who eventually emerged as the Eastern Conference champions.

Bertuzzi's arrival at the Bruins came through a trade with the Detroit Red Wings just before the NHL Trade Deadline in March.

Now on the verge of becoming an unrestricted free agent, Bertuzzi has attracted the attention of the Bruins, who are determined to retain his services. The team is also interested in keeping fellow pending unrestricted free agent Garnet Hathaway.

According to Elliotte Friedman in his recent "32 Thoughts" podcast, the Bruins have expressed their desire to bring back both Bertuzzi and Hathaway for the upcoming season. Friedman shared,

"We've discussed how Boston wants to keep Bertuzzi; I believe they also want to retain Hathaway. I've heard that General Manager Sweeney has been actively engaged in trade talks. It seems like he's involved in some intriguing developments."

Meanwhile, a source from Boston Hockey Now revealed that Bertuzzi had informed his former team about his intention to explore the free agent market this summer. The source stated,

"During negotiations for a contract extension with the Red Wings, he made it clear that he was determined to test free agency this summer. His camp is aware of the opportunities available, especially after his exceptional performance with the Bruins. Although the Bruins are putting in considerable effort to retain him, it may prove challenging due to his desire to experience free agency for the first time and their salary cap constraints."

Source: Hockeyfeed