There are many benefits Tyler Toffoli could bring to the Avalanche.
There are many benefits Tyler Toffoli could bring to the Avalanche.
The Colorado Avalanche are still playoff contenders, even on a four-game losing streak and one point away from losing their second-place Central Division spot to the Winnipeg Jets.
But if they hope to upgrade their roster for the playoffs, an option they could consider is Tyler Toffoli, who would come with a very wide range of benefits.
Toffoli's power play prowess
Toffoli is at the front of the Devils' first power-play unit, and has scored five power-play goals this season to show for it. Of his 35 total points on the season, 10 have come from the power play.
Toffoli is also spending more ice time on the power play than he ever has in his career. His career average is 2:11 per game — this season he's seeing 3:10 on average with the man advantage.
Digestable contract
Toffoli is on the last year of a four-year $4.25 million contract. For a contender to add a player of his calibre at this price tag, is something that every playoff-bound team should consider.
With the Devils retaining some salary and a contract going the other way — this contract could be easily digested by the Avalanche. They currently have $1.24 million in cap space. If they send a roster player (who makes around $2 million), along with a signed prospect and send a player down in a corresponding move they could make this work financially.
He's Got a Knack For Scoring Goals
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cofbrCmURwU[/embed]
Toffoli's last season with the Calgary Flames was the peak of his career, when he scored a whopping 34 goals and 73 points in 49 games played.
He is currently the top goal-scorer for the New Jersey Devils with 21 this season, only one behind the top point-scorer Jesper Bratt.
He is a closer-ranger shooter, accurate on high-danger shots taken right at the crease, scoring 29.4% of those 34 attempts, and central mid-range shots, scoring 31.8% of those 22 attempts.
It is clear Toffoli can bring the Avalanche more forward depth, fitting on their second or third line.
Toffoli is now approaching the end of his first and only season with the New Jersey Devils, and his $17 million contract that he signed with the Montreal Canadiens ends.
He's a proven offensive producer who could bring the Avalanche tremendous value — even if it's only for this season.
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