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Robert Bortuzzo News
The Blues have resigned Robert Bortuzzo to a two-year deal worth $2.3 million ($1.15M AAV).

Bortuzzo has appeared in 64 games with the Blues over the last three seasons, collecting just four goals and three assists. Bortuzzo has never been known for his offensive production, picking just 27 points (8G / 19A) in 177 career NHL games.

Robert Bortuzzo
The Blues have acquired Robert Bortuzzo and a 7th round pick from the Penguins for Ian Cole.

The Blues acquired Zbynek Michalek earlier in the day, who is a shot blocking defensive defenseman, but he is recovering from a concussion right now so the Blues add Bortuzzo as insurance. Bortuzzo is an in-your-face physical defenseman who plays a relatively simple game.

Robert Bortuzzo
Bortuzzo (upper-body) will be a game-time decision on Saturday.

Bortuzzo has missed the last five games, but was on the ice for the Pens’ morning skate and could be back in the lineup tonight. He will take part in warmups and based on how his body reacts will determine if he plays tonight or not.

Robert Bortuzzo
Penguins defenseman Robert Bortuzzo has been suspended two games for his hit on Jaromir Jagr on Tuesday.

Bortuzzo’s hit was late and he also made contact with Jagr’s chin. Because Bortuzzo did not leave his feet on the hit, he got off with a relatively short suspension. Bortuzo is eligible to return next Monday in New York. Expect Brian Dumoulin to play in the two games in which Bortuzzo will be unavailable.

Robert Bortuzzo
Bortuzzo (upper-body) will not play Tuesday; but is very close.

Bortuzzo is within a few days of returning to the Penguins lineup according to head coach Mike Johnston. Bortuzzo has not played yet this season, but will likely be in the lineup full-time starting next week when Olli Maatta misses four weeks after having surgery to remove a tumour from his neck.

Robert Bortuzzo
Bortuzzo (upper-body) is very close to returning to the Penguins lineup.

Bortuzzo, 25, has not played yet this season because of an upper-body injury. Bortuzzo has two goals and 12 assists (14 points) in 75 career NHL games. He will have to battle with Simon Despres for playing time on the Penguins blueline.

Robert Bortuzzo