What Does Tyler Toffoli Add to This San Jose Sharks Young Lineup for 2024-25?
By Conor Power
Tyler Toffoli's July 1st signing in the Bay Area surprised many. Conversations had been had regarding a return to the East Coast after starting last season with the New Jersey Devils. Still, the former Los Angeles King chose to return to the Golden State as he settled down with the San Jose Sharks to mentor young talent like Macklin Celebrini, Will Smith, and William Eklund. So, what can the teal faithful expect from the aging veteran in his return to the West Coast?
Toffoli has been one of the best-producing wingers in the NHL, and the Sharks will need more from him if they get out of the league's basement and show some signs of upward momentum in the coming years. San Jose's additions in free agency suggest that Mike Grier is serious about returning to a contending status as soon as possible, which is an excellent sign for the organization.
So, what does Toffoli add to the lineup that it desperately needs? Simply put goals. San Jose needs to increase its scoring output, and the only way they can do that is by adding players who can put the puck in the back of the net. Toffoli can do that and then some. With 33 goals and 55 points split across the New Jersey Devils and Winnipeg Jets last summer, the winger has been a scoring force for most of his career. Adding someone who can score 30 to the Sharks' top six was a much-needed addition.
In addition, Toffoli will provide some leadership for the younger players. Will Smith, William Eklund, and Macklin Celebrini will need guidance as they look to become the next generation of Sharks greats. Toffoli has experienced almost everything there is to experience in the hockey world, from the highest highs as a Los Angeles Kings to the lowest lows. He'll impart that knowledge to the younger players to help with their development.
He's not what he used to be as a second-line winger who could bounce up and down the ice, and he isn't a great defensive option for the Sharks, but he is one of the best scorers that was on the market this free agency. San Jose did well to end up with the forward, who can slot into this lineup as a scoring forward and a powerplay threat, but he doesn't provide much physicality. That's not an issue for a 30-goal scorer, but don't expect massive hits from this player.