Former Montreal Canadiens to Follow in the Playoffs

Finally, we get to the Pacific Division. Finally, finally, finally. I am sure that many people are wondering when I am going to shut up, and luckily for those people, there are only three teams that made into the playoffs out of the Pacific. So with no further ado:

Calgary Flames

Tyler Toffoli

The reaction to the trade of Tyler Toffoli really testifies to his character and impact on the team. It is hard to believe that he was only on the team for a season and a half before departing to Calgary.

After leaving, it was said that Toffoli was the de-facto captain after the departure of the whole leadership core. And he is a pretty good offensive force as well. After scoring a point-per-game in his 10 game stint in Vancouver, Toffoli had arguably his best year in his first year as a Hab. If he kept up this pace over a full 82 game season, he would have had career highs in probably every catergory.

Now the return for Toffoli was a little underwhelming, especially when compared to other players this offseason, but it is not atrocious. Montreal gets Calgary’s first round pick next year, a bottom-sixer at best in Tyler Pitlick, and a prospect in Emil Heineman.

But, Toffoli brings some more offensive flair to a team that, in all reality, doesn’t really need it.

Why To Follow Them

If you are big Canadian fan, Calgary has probably the best chance of all the Canadian teams to win it all this year. Plus they are super fun to watch with all that high-end talent.

Edmonton Oilers

Zack Kassian

Okay. Zack Kassian can hardly be called a Montreal Canadiens alumni, but technically he was on the team, however he never played a game for the team.

Kassian was traded along with a 5th round pick for tough-guy Brandon Prust. But, before the season began, Kassian was in a car which he was not driving, that ran into a tree. The incident and circumstances placed Kassian in the substance abuse program.

Montreal traded him to Edmonton for Ben Scrivens, and fortunately, Kassian has been able to play consistently for the Edmonton Oilers for the past 7 years now.

Brett Kulak

As with many depth players, it seems that they like playing in Montreal for their first year. After coming to Montreal for Rinat Valiev and Matt Taormina, Brett Kulak had a career year, scoring 6 goals and 17 points.

Unfortunately, Kulak never reached that height again, but did shine defensively, especially when paired with Jeff Petry. But with Montreal’s defensive depth, Kulak never found a full time roster spot, and never played a full season.

However, in Edmonton, Kulak will have a good chance to flex his defensive muscles in a more expanded role.

Why To Follow Them

Do you really need a reason to cheer for the Edmonton Oilers? Connor McDavid. Leon Draisaitl. That’s all that needs to be said.

Los Angeles Kings

Phillip Danault

This year, Phillip Danault scored 27 goals. If you take his two most offensively successful campaigns with Montreal, you would get 26 goals. Lord knows if this is sustainable, but it is an incredible run for a guy that really deserves it.

The best pure defensive forward in the game during his time in Montreal, Danault always seemed underrated and overhated due to his lack of ability to put the puck in the net. But he shut down all of the opponents’ top lines during that playoff run last year, and earned that big new contract.

He would not have put up those numbers in Montreal this year, and it is hard to see where his place would be, especially if Montreal drafts another young center. In fact, he might get played down the lineup due to L.A.’s boon of young centers, but this year has been something special for Phillip Danault. Can’t think of anyone better for it to happen to.

Why To Follow Them

The L.A. Kings should not be here. The L.A. Kings should be still rebuilding. And yet here they are, and the Vegas Golden Knights are out. I will love this team forever just for that, but it is also the last ride for Dustin Brown.

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