Tyler Bertuzzi admits to being “emotional” in Detroit return

The Detroit Red Wings were able to get back on track against the NHL-leading Boston Bruins yesterday afternoon, building up a 4-0 lead and holding off a furious comeback attempt by the visiting Bruins en route to a 5-3 victory, helping to keep their ever so slim postseason hopes still alive for the time being. 

But the major storyline on Sunday afternoon was the return of gritty forward Tyler Bertuzzi, who was traded from the Red Wings to the Bruins earlier this month at the NHL Trade Deadline. Bertuzzi, who was a fan favorite in the Motor City thanks to playing with an edge along with his timely goal scoring, couldn't come to terms with Detroit on a long term contract extension and was dealt by general manager Steve Yzerman rather than face the possibility of him walking in the summer for nothing. 

And for Bertuzzi, who was honored with a special video tribute that drew cheers from the sellout crowd at Little Caesars Arena, he admits that it was an "emotional" experience. 

“It was weird. It was definitely different, emotional,” said Bertuzzi afterward. “It’s good to be back…it was very nice of them to do that for me. That was great. Once the game gets going you forget about everything and you’re just focused on the hockey.”

“I’m just focusing on the task at hand. Obviously playing your old team a couple of times is going to be a little different, but I’m looking forward to the challenge,” said Bertuzzi. “I’m getting a little bit more comfortable every day. The practices help and the games help a lot. It’s going to take a little time, but I’m getting there.”

Bertuzzi didn't have to wait long to face his former teammates, as the Bruins took on the Red Wings the previous afternoon at TD Garden in downtown Boston. He and his new teammates will be taking on the basement dwelling Chicago Blackhawks from United Center tomorrow evening.