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Tyler Bertuzzi’s Goal-Scoring Surge Continues in 5-1 Win

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | By Old Prof | Last updated 3/29/24

Tyler Bertuzzi continued his impressive goal-scoring streak with two goals in the Toronto Maple Leafs’ 5-1 victory over the Washington Capitals. Here’s the breakdown of his two goals:

Bertuzzi scored his first goal 18 seconds into the second period on a crafty play where he banked a shot off the Capitals’ goaltender from behind the net to give the Maple Leafs a 2-0 lead. This goal became the game-winner and set the tone for the rest of the contest.

Bertuzzi with the bank shot. ???? pic.twitter.com/b1Oil4mwQS
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) March 29, 2024

In the third period, Bertuzzi capitalized on another chance when he intercepted a pass attempt from a Capitals defender and quickly fired a shot into the net to extend the Maple Leafs’ lead. His ability to capitalize on his scoring chances was a key to the team’s win last night.

Bertuzzi Played a Key Role in the Maple Leafs Win

Bertuzzi emerged as the Maple Leafs’ first star last night. He was the only player to register multiple points. His two goals were his 17th and 18th of the season.

Bertuzzi might well have split the season into two parts. In part one, his scoring deserted him and he missed chance after chance. However, on Thursday night, he (no pun intended) witnessed a significant turnaround with the shot he banked from behind the net off the bottom of Lindberg’s shin pad.

Before his resurgence, Bertuzzi struggled to find the back of the net. He managed only seven goals in his first 55 games. That projected to an underwhelming 10-goal pace for an 82-game season. However, his recent form has been remarkable. His 11 goals in his last 14 games put him on an impressive 60-goal pace for an 82-game season.

Bertuzzi Could Become an Important Playoff Performer – Again

The Maple Leafs brought Bertuzzi on board primarily for his postseason performance, and he certainly delivered last season as the top scorer for the Boston Bruins. During last season’s playoffs, he scored five goals and added five assists (for ten points) in seven games. With his recent surge in form, there’s optimism that he can replicate that success and carry his stellar play into the upcoming postseason.

Bertuzzi’s game against the Capitals extended his goal-scoring streak to six goals in the last seven games. This production is a welcome sight for the Maple Leafs, especially considering his previous struggles earlier in the season. If he can find the back of the net regularly, he will emerge as a key offensive threat for the Maple Leafs heading into the postseason. His ability to generate offense and contribute to the team’s success will be crucial down the stretch and into the playoffs.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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