Flames: Analyzing Tyler Toffoli’s tenure since trade from Canadiens

It’s been nearly two months since the Calgary Flames traded for Tyler Toffoli.

Valentines Day 2022 will be remembered for different reasons. The Calgary Flames picked up Tyler Toffoli. A mutual fondness has certainly blossomed.

Since his arrival in Southern Alberta, Toffoli has cemented himself on the second line and on the power play.

In his first game with the Flames he made an immediate impact:

Toffoli has 11 goals and 20 points in only 27 games. With the Montreal Canadians this season, he had nine goals and 26 points. The Flames are getting exactly what they wanted.

Read more: Calgary Flames trade analysis on Tyler Toffoli.

Special teams are where he’s most noticeable.

On the power play, you can find the right-shot forward hanging out beside the opposing goaltender. He’s usually forgotten about when the puck is on the far boards. Forward Matthew Tkachuk has done a solid job finding his linemate with cross-crease passes. It’s just up to Toffoli (and a bit of luck) for the puck to find the net.

He had five power-play goals in Montreal and currently sits at four in Calgary.

A noticeable difference about this Flames team compared to others in the past, they play a full 200-foot game. Forward Elias Lindholm is a prime example. He’s always on the backcheck and hustling, especially if he turns it over.

When Calgary brought in Toffoli, head coach Darryl Sutter brought up his 200-foot game almost right away.

Having players like Lindholm and Toffoli instantly makes the Flames better. Sutter likes to play defensive-minded hockey. Calgary is currently plus 75 in goal differential. Only the Florida Panthers and Colorado Avalanche rank higher.

Read more: How the Flames should handle their goaltending situation.

Toffoli and his wife are loved everywhere they go. Their dog Dodger is certainly a fan favourite. Calgary isn’t known to trade for star players during the season. It’s a nice change to have someone of his calibre embrace the city just before playoff time.

He’s one of the most sought out jerseys as of late, which goes to show just how much of an impact he’s had so far.

Toffoli has a Stanley Cup win under Sutter, so it’ll be interesting to see how he performs once the playoffs start in May.