With the Stanley Cup Playoffs winding down, the NHL's official offseason is fast approaching, which means the start of the buyout window around the league. The Blackhawks have a few potential candidates for buyouts according to various oulets.
One name that has gotten a lot of noise this offseason has been Blackhawks forward Tyler Bertuzzi. The Blackhawks signed Bertuzzi to a four year $22 million contract last summer, and Bertuzzi's numbers have been underwhelming at best after a full season with just 23 goals and 46 points recorded in 82 games.
Bertuzzi was not the difference maker he has been in the past, but that might have something to do wtih the Hawks playing in meaningless games pretty much since the start of November. The writing was on the wall Chicago was not going to make the postseason and Bertuzzi—who's game is best fit for the postseason—struggled finding a role in Chicago.
Despite an underwhelming season, using a buyout on Tyler Bertuzzi would be a mistake for the Blackhawks.
The Athletic's Mark Lazerus highlighted Bertuzzi and defenseman T.J. Brodie as two potential buyout candidates in March, Lyle Richardson of Bleacher Report also spoke of Bertuzzi in April. Chicago definitely has the cap space to afford a buyout, but that doesn't mean they should make the move on Bertuzzi.
General manager Kyle Davidson should give Bertuzzi another chance to make his mark on the Hawks next season. With another top pick on the way, and some potential help in the free agency market—Chicago should have a better roster in 2025-26. Bertuzzi could find his role in a deeper lineup, one where he can shine as a middle six forward.
Using a buyout on Bertuzzi would also take away a potential return in a trade. If Bertuzzi is struggling and still hasn't jelled with the roster by next January the Hawks would be able to retain some salary and trade Bertuzzi with the possibility to bring back an asset to the organization.
While buyouts can get a team out of a tough contract, Bertuzzi still has a lot he can bring to the Blackhawks roster. With a team still in a rebuild, Chicago can afford to give Bertuzzi another chance.
