Tyler Toffoli
ON-ICE VALUE
Top-Six Forward
STRENGTHS
IQ: Toffoli is a smart offensive player who positions himself well on the ice. He displays a great knack for finding open space, winding his way through the defense until he’s ready to pounce. He’s effective at both flaring out for one-timers and cruising to the backdoor for a tap-in or second-chance opportunity.
Shot: He hasn’t always converted at a clinical rate, but that has more to do with his shot selection than the quickness and accuracy of his wrister. When he has even a half-second to pull the trigger, he can beat goaltenders cleanly from the circles in. He picks corners well and possesses a quick, deceptive release.
Crafty: While he isn’t an electrifying player, he does have a cagey, old-school style that allows him to catch defenders off guard. Opponents are so focused on denying his shot that he can sometimes outwait or dangle through them. He’s just a clever forward who knows how to get where he wants.
WEAKNESSES
Skating: His craftiness and scoring touch are currently limited by decidedly average skating. Toffoli struggles to establish clean zone entries and create separation from defenders. As such, it’s usually not a good idea for him to have the puck on his stick for an extended period of time.
Playoff Production: When the intensity ramps up, he can become a little hesitant. His shooting frequency and efficiency dip, and he just doesn’t seem as involved out there. He turns into a floater rather than an assertive complementary top-six forward.
