Bertuzzi is the newest to skate with two of Toronto's top stars.

It was always presumed when he signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs that Tyler Bertuzzi would get the first chance to skate with star forwards Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner.

That's exactly what happened on the first day of practice sessions for the Leafs on Thursday.

"I'm excited. It's a big opportunity," Bertuzzi said about the chance. "I won't take it lightly."

The Maple Leafs signed Bertuzzi to a one-year, $5.5 million contract this summer. He's expected to be that hard-driving winger that will help create some space for his linemates. 

But can produce as well.

Bertuzzi finished in a tie with Brad Marchand for the team lead in points (10) while with the Boston Bruins where he scored five goals and added five assists.

Also of note from Group 1, rookie Matthew Knies skated on a line with John Tavares and Sam Lafferty. While newcomer defenseman John Klingberg skated with Jake McCabe. Maple Leafs training camp is divided into three groups to begin this year. Group 1 and 2 see somewhat of an even split of talent, while Group 3 is a developmental and return-to-play group that will see players mix in and out as needed. The first such incident occurred today with defenseman Nolan Dillingham being moved to Group 2 from Group 3 after the Leafs announced that defenseman Simon Benoit would sit out of practice today with back spasms.

Group 1 and 2 sessions saw practice begin with a conditioning skate, followed by a full practice session. 

Group 2 kicked off later in the day on Thursday. William Nylander opened his first camp at the center position alongside newcomer Max Domi and returning winger Calle Jarnkrok.

Noah Gregor, the only professional tryout on the Leafs, found himself skating alongside David Kampf and Ryan Reaves.

Morgan Rielly and TJ Brodie are reunited as a top defensive pair to start.

More to come…

Related

10 Things We Learned From Maple Leafs Media Day as Training Camp Opens

Maple Leafs React to Mike Babcock’s Departure from the Columbus Blue Jackets

Why William Nylander Will Start Training Camp at Center For the Maple Leafs

News from THN.com

Why There's No Cookie-Cutter Way of Naming an NHL Captain

Five NHL Players to Bring Back in a Wrestling-Style Return

The Hockey News Podcast: Babcock, NHL Prospect Showcases and Mailbag