After two years with the Warriors, and solid defensive play, Bergman moved into the American Hockey League and continued to gain experience while skating with four different AHL squads, including the Buffalo Bisons, Cleveland Barons, Quebec Aces, and the Springfield Indians.

The Detroit Red Wings claimed Bergman in the 1964 NHL Intra-League Draft on June 10 and put the hard-working defenceman to the test.

While all eyes were on young superstars like Bobby Orr and Brad Park, the Red Wings were a mediocre team that continued to lose respect in the league, especially with the retirement of Gordie Howe.

He was one of the most liked NHLers off the ice due to his charity work and in 1973 he was named co-winner of the Charlie Conacher Humanitarian Award.

After 10 years as a Wing, Bergman was traded to the Minnesota North Stars for fellow veteran blueliner Ted Harris on November 7, 1973.

One thought as to why he was traded stemmed from Bergman speaking out when he disagreed with the decisions of the general manager Ned Harkness, Jan. 1971-1974.

Along with Bill McKenzie, Bergman was traded on August 22, 1975, for Peter McDuffe and Glen Burdon to the newly formed Kansas City Scouts where he would spend his final NHL season.

In 1972 Bergman received a huge compliment when Harry Sinden and John Ferguson invited him to play with Team Canada in the 1972 Summit Series.