A major addition completed by the Chicago Blackhawks keeps looking better and better

In 27 games, Bertuzzi already has 16 goals and 10 assists for 26 points, making him one of the team's leading offensive producers.

The signing of Tyler Bertuzzi by the Blackhawks has been nothing but positive, plain and simple, especially with the Blackhawks struggling for secondary scoring around Connor Bedard.

Chicago hasn't been elite, but when Bertuzzi gets chances in the high-danger areas, he buries them. His six points in the last six games show he's heating up at the right time.

Chicago's offense as a whole has been boom-or-bust this year, but Bertuzzi's consistency has been a stabilizer for Jeff Blashill's top six.

He's thrown his weight around in all situations, and that kind of presence goes beyond the stat sheet into drawing attention off Bedard.

Fans have noticed how often the Blackhawks look sharper when Bertuzzi and Bedard click on the rush, because suddenly the young stars have space and confidence.

The reality is, Chicago needs every bit of offense it can get. Bedard is still the centerpiece, but when players like Bertuzzi step up week after week, it gives the Blackhawks a chance to steal points even on nights the top line has trouble.

It's also worth noting that Chicago has worked through some rough stretches, including a tough West Coast trip, and Bertuzzi was one of the few constants in the lineup.

His ability to find soft spots in the defense and finish chances is something this team lacked last year.

His veteran presence continues to pay dividends on a young team still finding itself in the NHL's tight Central Division. If that production keeps trending up, this «smart move» will look like one of the keys to the Hawks staying competitive in December and beyond.