Red Wings reportedly make decision on Tyler Bertuzzi

With the National Hockey League Trade Deadline on the horizon, there has been speculation that the Detroit Red Wings could potentially move on from one of their two prized pending unrestricted free agents-to be in captain Dylan Larkin and Tyler Bertuzzi, given the fact that neither one of them have been able to make any progress with regards to a contract extension. 

Larkin's camp and Red Wings management are allegedly $1 million apart in their ongoing negotiations, while Bertuzzi is finishing up his two-year restricted free-agent bridge deal; he and team management have reportedly been unable to make any headway on a new deal. 

However, Larkin has absolutely been on fire of late for Detroit, who find themselves now within striking distance of a postseason spot. Meanwhile, Bertuzzi's game has been improving after he's missed a near combined three months after having broken both hands in separate shot blocking incidents.

And according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the Red Wings have allegedly backed off any desire to part with Bertuzzi at the Deadline thanks to their recent surge in the standings, despite the likes of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Dallas Stars and Edmonton Oilers having shown reported interest. 

"That has led to the belief that, at least for the time being, Tyler Bertuzzi is not available, and the Red Wings will keep him as long as they (continue) their run to the playoffs through the trade deadline," Friedman explained this past Saturday night.

"Things can always change but...that looks like where it stands."

Bertuzzi hasn't exactly been on pace for the kind of numbers he posted last season, even in a shortened campaign thanks to his injury setbacks. In the 24 games he's suited up in, he's lit the lamp only three times while adding nine assists. 

The NHL Trade Deadline is March 3. Will Bertuzzi still be a member of the Red Wings that afternoon?