Mar 4, 2020; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks forward Tyler Toffoli (73) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Arizona Coyotes during the third period at Rogers Arena. Arizona won 4 -2. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports

Canucks' Tyler Toffoli says staying in Vancouver is a priority

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 9/11/20

Canucks forward Tyler Toffoli really doesn't want to play for his third NHL team next season, and in light of that has begun to discuss his desire to remain in Vancouver.

The pending unrestricted free agent said staying with the Canucks is a "priority," according to Sportsnet's Brendan Batchelor.

“I want to talk to Jim and see where he’s at and where the team’s at because that’s priority number one right now...I want to stay in Vancouver.” - Tyler Toffoli #Canucks
— Brendan Batchelor (@BatchHockey) September 11, 2020

The Canucks acquired Toffoli from the Los Angeles Kings before February's trade deadline. Toffoli, 28, was a perfect fit inside Vancouver's top six, tallying 10 points in 10 games before the NHL paused it's season due to the coronavirus pandemic. He added four points in seven postseason games in the Edmonton bubble.

Toffoli has made $4.6 million in each of his last three seasons and is due for a raise. Vancouver is projected to have about $14.3 million in cap space this offseason, so getting Toffoli signed shouldn't be a huge issue. However, the club also has to sign goaltender Jacob Markstrom, defenseman Chris Tanev and forward Jake Virtanen, among others.

Vancouver is headed toward becoming one of the more successful franchises in today's NHL scene. When trying to sign Toffoli, they'll also have to think about signings they'll have to make after next season. Goaltender Thatcher Demko, defensemen Jordie Benn and Alex Edler and forwards Elias Petterson, Tanner Pearson and Brandon Sutter all will need new contracts.

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