Brad Treliving Actively Seeking Tyler Bertuzzi's Replacement

The Toronto Maple Leafs have experienced a less than stellar opening to their season, with a 5-3-2 record positioning them at third in the Atlantic Division after 10 games.

The underwhelming performance of Tyler Bertuzzi, acquired during the off-season by GM Brad Treliving, has been a notable factor in the team's middling start.

Tyler Bertuzzi's production has been minimal, with only two goals and an assist to his name, despite playing alongside elite linemates Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. This shortfall has led to a reduction in his ice time, as he now fills a role in the bottom-six forward group.

Current murmurs suggest that Treliving is considering cost-effective options to supplant Bertuzzi's spot on the team.

Darren Dreger, an NHL insider, has relayed a sentiment of dissatisfaction among the Leafs' management with the team's dynamics, especially after an incident involving Brad Marchand and Timothy Liljegren.

Observations have been made about the lackluster responses from Ryan Reaves and Tyler Bertuzzi, recent additions to the team, during the altercation with Marchand.

Treliving's expectations for a cultural shift with these players on board seem unmet, as the incident culminated in nothing more than tepid exchanges.

Cap limitations leave the Maple Leafs with few avenues to bolster their forward lineup. Interest has been shown in Patrick Kane, who may be a viable option if he agrees to a contract at the league minimum following hip surgery.

Alexander Barabanov, a former Leaf now with the Sharks, could be a strategic reacquisition, especially if San Jose consents to retain a portion of his salary. With his injury notwithstanding, Barabanov's previous season performance showed promise.

Nick Robertson stands as another potential addition, ready for a top-six role and motivated by his desire for NHL playtime, hinted at by his current AHL success.

Accommodating Robertson's ELC could mean demoting Ryan Reaves, who hasn't quite made the expected impact thus far into the season.

As Read on HockeyPatrol - report:%20Brad%20Treliving%20Is%20Already%20Looking%20To%20Replace%20Tyler%20Bertuzzi