Blackhawks 2025-26 Player Grades: Tyler Bertuzzi

Bertuzzi came into the season on the heels of a 23-goal, 46-point season in year 1 in Chicago. Who would’ve thought that Bertuzzi would improve on those numbers in his age-31 season? Bertuzzi was a scoring threat, leading the team with 32 goals in 79 games. He also finished second in total scoring behind Bedard with 58 points.

Bertuzzi became a bit of a power play merchant with 11 power play goals, but it was a huge boost for the Hawks. Bertuzzi’s workshop was within three feet of the blue paint, and made great use of that area. So many of Bertuzzi’s goals were tip-ins or backdoor dunks off of some great passing. Bertuzzi may not be the fastest or best shooter, but he knows his role and executes it incredibly well.

The savvy veteran wing has two more seasons remaining at $5.5 million, which feels like a bargain for the production Bertuzzi has brought to the lineup. He should have another great season, as he’s set to play somewhere in the top-9 pretty consistently in 2026-27.

Player Grades

Blackhawks Cowboy’s Grade: A+

What more could be wanted from Tyler Bertuzzi? The 31-year-old had his best-ever NHL season. 32 goals with 26 assists for 58 total points. Bertuzzi thrived in front with Connor Bedard on the power play, and this dominance in front led him to lead the team in goals. Also, Tyler played much of the season away from Chicago’s stars in Frank Nazar and Bedard, yet he still contributed. His play also helped unlock Anton Frondell at the end of the year. Overall, Bertuzzi did more than meet expectations. He destroyed them and, for that reason, gets the A+.

Tony Marchese’s Grade: A

Tyler Bertuzzi was absolutely outstanding this past season. Netting a career high in goals, and playing just shy of 18:30 a night, he thrived under new head coach Jeff Blashill. It was also the way he went about scoring all those goals that made him even more worthy of an A for the season… he was in front of the net for most of them. The Hawks desperately needed someone to go to the dirty areas to find offense, and that is exactly what Bertuzzi showed he was capable of. Just an incredible year for the veteran presence, let’s hope that can be replicated in the coming season.

Ron Luce’s Grade: A

How good was Tyler Bertuzzi in 2025-26? Setting a career high in goals, and his second-highest point total ever, Bertuzzi was a spark plug for the Blackhawks. His 32 goals were great, but the way he operated around the net is what made Bert such a problem. His work station was within five feet of the opposing net. At $5.5 million per year, it is safe to say that Bertuzzi was one of Kyle Davidson’s best free agent signings of his tenure. Bert has two more seasons under contract as well. Although he very easily could take a step back next season, he will still have quite the impact on the roster.

What’s On Tap Next?

As noted, there are still two more seasons of Tyler Bertuzzi. He may once again play with Connor Bedard, or he will flank Anton Frondell on the team’s second line. The exact place in the lineup Bertuzzi plays remains to be seen, but he should be in line for another strong season for the Hawks.

Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Tyler Bertuzzi? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram!

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