I hope it works out for Bert and Wings fans, but if we can glean anything from recent history, Bert will be great for the first 10-15 games of the season and an enigma the rest of the way. 

However, the big issue in Calgary was that Keenan never held Bert accountable for his poor play, he won’t have that same luxury with Babcock.

Posted by dash_pinched from Rumour Mill Bay on 09/22/09 at 10:42 AM ET

I think Bertuzzi will be better this season than he’s been post-lockout, but not necessarily show increased production. I think his overall game, work ethic, and effort will be better. But for actual numbers, I think we need to target the 20 goal/40 point barriers as excellent milestones for him to reach.

The Red Wings demand that from all players. It’s a culture that started with Bowman and worked its way up back through the front office, and down to the veteran players like Steve Yzerman. And through the years, it’s carried from the vets to the new players, from the front office to the new coaches, and isn’t going anywhere any time soon.

Either Bert rises to the occasion, or he doesn’t play for the Red Wings very long.

Posted by Nathan from the scoresheet! on 09/22/09 at 11:58 AM ET

Either Bert rises to the occasion, or he doesn’t play for the Red Wings very long...again
Posted by Nathan from Jonny Ericsson’s ice cream truck on 09/22/09 at 12:58 PM ET

Fixed.

Posted by Animal Drew from A Nightmare on Helm Street on 09/22/09 at 01:38 PM ET