“He just needs to simplify his game,” Maple Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe CALLS OUT Tyler Bertuzzi following devastating 3-2 loss to Bruins

Toronto Maple Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe has called out Tyler Bertuzzi and explained his decision to demote him from the attacking lines.

“He just needs to simplify his game,” Maple Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe CALLS OUT Tyler Bertuzzi following devastating 3-2 loss to Bruins

Sheldon Keefe (L) and Tyler Bertuzzi (R) [Pic Credit: The Canadian Press]

The 2023-24 season has been not going as Tyler Bertuzzi wished for. When he signed for the Toronto Maple Leafs he was widely expected to play a major role. However, he has struggled to make the desired impact. As a result of this, he has been demoted to the fourth line in offense. Coach Sheldon Keefe has now called him out after their 3-2 loss to the Boston Bruins.

So far this season, Bertuzzi has managed to only score two goals and add one assist. The Maple Leafs had expected much better from him. In the midway of the game against the Bruins, Coach Keefe demoted him from his position.

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This was though something that seemed likely on the cards. A few days ago before the Maple Leafs took on the Washington Capitals, the team would practice a new set of lines for attack. Along with rookie Matthew Knies, Bertuzzi was bumped down one line. This was done to give the other player an opportunity to play in the first line.

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"He just needs to simplify his game. Today, we had a very simple plan. He failed to execute that, so other guys had to take his place".

Can Tyler Beztuzzi turn his season around?

It is not strange for a player to take a while to get adjusted to a new team. Several big players have struggled to fit in the right way. This also seems to be the case with Tyler Bertuzzi as he is yet to establish himself in the eyes of his coach and Maple Leafs’ fanbase. Following his performances this season, many are questioning whether he can turn his season around.

Tyler Bertuzzi
Tyle Bertuzzi (Pic Credit: CP)

This question can only be answered by Bertuzzi himself. His previous performances with the Detroit Red Wings were impressive. He finished back-to-back seasons where he had over 20 goals season. His struggles though were seen from last season where he could only manage eight goals during 50 games between the Red Wings and Boston Bruins.

The words of his coach could prove crucial to his season. The 28-year-old no doubt has the skills to perform better, but with his constant struggles and errors, things are becoming hard for him.

The Maple Leafs now take on the Buffalo Sabres. With him failing to link up with stars Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner, Bertuzzi finds himself with less playing time. He is currently on a one-year contract. If his performances do not improve, there could be an early exit for him from Toronto.

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