Blackhawks forward caught in tampering controversy ahead of NHL season
Photo credit: Toronto Star
Maple Leafs choose Domi over Bertuzzi in strategic move.
In a pivotal decision that has rippled through the NHL, the Toronto Maple Leafs opted to secure Max Domi with a $15 million deal, while parting ways with Tyler Bertuzzi, whose contract demands surpassed what the Leafs were willing to offer.
Bertuzzi, in turn, found a new home with the Chicago Blackhawks, signing a $5.5 million annual average value (AAV) contract for four years.
The Blackhawks' acquisition of Bertuzzi was somewhat unexpected, facilitated by an intriguing twist involving Blackhawks forward Nick Foligno.
In an unexpected move, Foligno reached out to Bertuzzi, sparking interest that eventually led to his signing.
« Chicago wasn't really on my radar,» Bertuzzi said. «And then, the day before free agency, Nick Foligno called me and he said, �They're a little bit interested.' I was excited about that and then things kind of went from there. »
Bertuzzi elaborated on the personal aspects of the transition, noting the importance of family considerations and adjusting to a new city.
However, the timing of Foligno's outreach has stirred controversy across the league, hinting at possible tampering.
acknowledgment of these discussions, which occurred before the official start of free agency, has led to whispers of a potential investigation into the matter.
Yet, as of July 11th, there have been no formal reports confirming such an inquiry.
The relationship between Foligno and Bertuzzi, forged during their time together with the Boston Bruins in the 2022-2023 season, appears to have been a significant factor in this scenario.
Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson, on July 5th, commented on the influence of Foligno's extensive network within the league.
« I think Nick's got a lot of friends around the league,» Davidson told reporters. «He's a guy, I think, whose network is very large. It's kind of funny when we hear that. We don't ask them to do these things but Nick cares. He knows a lot of people, he loves the team and he wants to push this thing forward. »
This series of events highlights the complex, often personal dynamics that influence NHL transactions, showcasing how relationships and timing can dramatically sway the decisions of both players and teams.
The Leafs' strategy in focusing their resources on Domi while the Blackhawks welcomed Bertuzzi with open arms illustrates the divergent paths teams can take based on their respective visions and the underlying connections that often guide these choices.
Source: Heavy.com
Former Maple Leafs Forward Facing Tampering Accusations: Report
Former Maple Leafs Forward Facing Tampering Accusations: Report
| POLL | ||
13 JUILLET | 59 ANSWERS Blackhawks forward caught in tampering controversy ahead of NHL season Is Tyler Bertuzzi guilty of tampering? | ||
| Yes | 6 | 10.2 % |
| No | 53 | 89.8 % |
| LIST OF POLLS | ||
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