Teddy Blueger signed a two-year contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs on Wednesday, and during a Zoom call with media on Friday, he explained why the team felt like the right fit. The 31-year-old forward, who turns 32 in August, said the Leafs' early interest and his potential role made the decision easy.
Blueger on Choosing Toronto
“You go off where you feel like you’re wanted and where you think you could have a role,” Blueger said. “Toronto was interested right from the start and it just felt like the right place to go. Being able to play it for an Original Six team, that opportunity doesn’t come too often and that’s a big honour to be able to do so. It ended up being an easy choice.”
Blueger, a native of Latvia, has played 435 career NHL games with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Vegas Golden Knights, and Vancouver Canucks, recording 58 goals and 111 assists. He is known for his penalty-killing ability and versatility, able to play both center and wing.
Embracing the Toronto Market
Regarding the increased pressure of playing in a hockey-centric market like Toronto, Blueger expressed enthusiasm. “Knowing Toronto seems to be kind of the centre of the hockey world, the guys that I’m friends with that have played there say it’s a little bit different, it carries a little more weight,” he said. “You’re in the building and you look up at the rafters and all the retired numbers and all the history … people know how passionate the fans are, and how much they care. I think it’s great to be doing something that people care so much about. It’s a unique opportunity that you don’t get most places.”
Familiar Faces and New Roles
Blueger has familiarity with Leafs winger Dakota Joshua, as the two played on a line together with the Canucks. He also exchanged pleasantries with fellow new Leafs forward Colton Sissons, whom he fought during a game in March. Blueger’s contract carries an average annual value of $2.5 million US. Given that Leafs general manager John Chayka has added several interchangeable players to the bottom six, Blueger expects to play both center and wing. “I think both are a good fit,” Blueger said. “Most centres can play wing normally and be adaptable that way, and switch back and forth. Even last year, there were times where I’d play a couple shifts at wing, then go back to centre. I feel comfortable kind of doing both. Wherever I’m needed is where I’ll be.”
