In a poignant moment that marked both a return and a farewell, Robert Bortuzzo took to the ice for potentially the last time in his NHL career on April 15, 2025, during Utah's final game of the season against the St. Louis Blues. After a tumultuous year plagued by injuries, Bortuzzo's presence was a celebration not just for him but for the entire Utah Hockey Club, as they honored a veteran who has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Bortuzzo, who last played in January against the Calgary Flames, was sidelined for months after suffering a lower-body injury. He managed only 8:25 of ice time in that game before being placed on injured reserve. However, the veteran defenseman was activated in late March and was eager to return to the lineup, especially for a game against the franchise where he spent a decade of his career.
At the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in St. Louis, the announcement of his return sent ripples of excitement through the team. Head coach André Tourigny expressed his enthusiasm: "I think the guys are all excited to have him back tonight." Bortuzzo's teammates showed their support as well; there was an eruption of cheers when they learned he would play, underscoring the respect and admiration they hold for him.
"It’s been a hell of a ride," Bortuzzo said, reflecting on his journey. "I’m not making any pronouncements or anything, but I just want to take it in stride and have some fun." His emotions were palpable as he spoke about his parents, Susan and Oscar Bortuzzo, who traveled 14 hours from Thunder Bay, Ontario, to witness this special occasion. "They wouldn’t miss this one," he stated, his voice breaking slightly. "They molded me into who I am today, and they sacrificed so much for me to get here."
Throughout his 14-year career, Bortuzzo has played 577 NHL games, scoring 76 points. He won a Stanley Cup with the Blues in 2019, and that victory remains a highlight of his career. "St. Louis is a spot that gave me everything professionally," he said. "It created some of the best friendships, best relationships I have in my life. I owe a lot to that organization, ownership, and everything was just super first-class."
As he prepared to face the Blues, Bortuzzo acknowledged the unique significance of playing against his former team. "To come back here and get a chance to actually play in this building where we were able to accomplish a few fun things is truly special," he remarked.
Bortuzzo has been more than just a player for Utah; he has served as a mentor to younger teammates, fostering a strong sense of brotherhood within the locker room. "I’ve played on some close-knit teams, and this team’s no different," he noted. "They truly are a strong brotherhood, a good mix of young and old, and truly come to the rink with a ton of enthusiasm."
Michael Kesselring, one of the younger players on the Utah blue line, praised Bortuzzo’s impact on his development. "He’s been unreal," Kesselring said. "He’s a great pro. He’s had a long career. He’s been really good to me and everybody in the room. We’re all excited for him to get in the game tonight."
Tourigny emphasized that Bortuzzo's influence transcends his on-ice performance. "I don’t think you can measure his impact only by what he did on the ice," said Tourigny. "The veteran presence, the championship pedigree, the composure, and the kind of teammate he is, the brother he is for our group, meant a ton."
As the game approached, the atmosphere was electric. Bortuzzo's return was celebrated not just by fans but also by the organization that had once called him their own. Doug Armstrong, the general manager of the Blues, reached out to the Bortuzzo family, inviting them to sit in the team’s box, a gesture that highlighted the enduring connections formed during Bortuzzo's time in St. Louis.
With the game underway, Bortuzzo skated onto the ice, a sight that evoked cheers and applause from the crowd. His journey as a player has been characterized by resilience, grit, and a commitment to his teammates. As he took his place on the blue line, it was clear that this game was more than just another match; it was a culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
Throughout the season, Bortuzzo has embodied the spirit of mentorship, teaching younger players the importance of professionalism and camaraderie. "You just try to provide the young guys with a little bit of a template for how to carry yourself around the rink, try to come to the rink with enthusiasm, attack every day," he explained. His approach has undoubtedly influenced the culture within the Utah Hockey Club, helping to shape a team that is not just competitive but also united.
As the game progressed, Bortuzzo's presence was felt both on and off the ice. His teammates rallied around him, motivated by the significance of the moment. Even as he faced the uncertainty of retirement, Bortuzzo remained focused on enjoying the experience. "I’m very thankful for the organization here to have given me this chance this year to be a part of this," he said. "They’re obviously in good hands here. I played for four really great organizations. This team here is obviously on a good path."
Whether this game against the Blues marks the end of Bortuzzo's career or the beginning of a new chapter remains to be seen. However, his contributions to the inaugural season for Utah are irreplaceable. His legacy as a player, leader, and mentor will resonate within the organization long after he hangs up his skates. As he reflected on his journey, Bortuzzo expressed gratitude for the experiences that have shaped him, knowing that he has left a lasting impact on the game he loves.
