MayorsManor had a chance to catch up with Tyler Toffoli on a myriad of subjects this afternoon. Here is what the second-year NHL forward had to share…
On if the focus has been building up to this point:
“Yes. I think Brownie said it best, but I don’t even remember [the exact quote] – It’s been crazy, playing every second day and traveling… I think we just have to play our game and once it’s over, it’s time to reflect and think about it. Right now, there’s not a whole lot going through my mind except for tonight.”
On what they learned from the Blackhawk resurgence and how they might apply it to tonight’s game:
“We have to make sure we play our game. We can’t get away and play their game. We’ve got to stick to our system and use the momentum we gained from last game and carry it over. We have to play our game.”
[note: the above two questions were taken from an earlier scrum, not with MayorsManor]
On whether Dean Lombardi has talked to him one-on-one during this playoff run:
“I think he had one conversation with me before the Playoffs started. He said, play my role and do what I’m here to do. I’m here to help the team and bring energy. I think me and Pearson have been doing our best, to bring our best every night and help the team win. So far, it’s been great. We just have to win one more and we have to be ready and be focused.”
On any one-on-one walks with Darryl Sutter:
“I think they know what type of person I am and when something needs to be said, they’ll let me know. It’s not a 20 minute meeting. It’s a couple of words. It’s ‘be ready.’”
On feelings of possible vindication regarding negative comments earlier in his career regarding his ability, lack of foot speed, etc.:
“I don’t really care what people said about me. They can say whatever they thought… You never know how a player is going to turn out. I’m not saying I’m amazing, but I’ve worked hard. I’ve had the determination to play in the NHL and to be here now, in the Stanley Cup Finals alone…it’s been pretty surreal. We just have to play our game. It’s not just me. It’s been a whole team effort, four lines, six D, Quickie playing amazing… That’s what you need to win. You need to have your whole team in it and be a tight-knit group and that’s what we are. We’re focused and determined.”
On whether his experience in Manchester benefitted him in comparison with other young players who might need to adapt more:
“I think most of the young players on the team really benefited from Manch. Muzz, Slava, me, Pearse, even Cliffy played in Manch a little bit. It’s the way Dean runs things. It definitely helped me. Coming out of junior hockey, I thought I was the best player, but I wasn’t. Being in Manch last year and this year helped me a lot. The friendships I gained, it’s incredible. To be able to have done that, it’s a blessing.”
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