Tyler Toffoli close to a return to Canucks lineup: report

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Missing in action since Vancouver’s opening game of the postseason against Minnesota, the Canucks could be getting Tyler Toffoli back into their lineup very soon.

This is according to a report from TSN 1040’s Matt Sekeres, who says Toffoli is getting closer to returning to the lineup.

#Canucks D Tyler Myers (shoulder) remains out for G5 tonight vs #stlblues.

W Tyler Toffoli (foot) remains doubtful.

There was word that Toffoli might try and skate today, and is getting closer. But it’s more likely to be G6 Friday then today. @TSN1040

— Matthew Sekeres (@mattsekeres) August 19, 2020

Sekeres said on TSN 1040 radio this afternoon that Toffoli skated this morning and he’s “nearing a return.” Toffoli might even make an appearance in the pre-game skate, according to Sekeres, though he’s still “doubtful” for tonight’s game.

A report later in the day from TSN’s Darren Dreger confirms that Toffoli won’t play tonight.

No Toffoli tonight for the Canucks, but he’s making progress.

— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) August 19, 2020

Toffoli suffered a foot injury in Game 1, and was reportedly seen in a walking boot afterwards. Game 6 is scheduled for Friday, and if there’s a need for a Game 7, that’ll take place Sunday.

Given Vancouver’s lack of forward depth, adding a high-end winger like Toffoli would be a welcome sight. Toffoli had 10 points in 10 games for the Canucks before the season was paused in March, and has the experience of winning a Stanley Cup with the LA Kings in 2014.

Without Toffoli, Canucks head coach Travis Green has been forced to play Loui Eriksson on Bo Horvat’s line.

• See also:
  • Canucks need more playoff production from their depth forwards
  • Canucks need to be harder on O’Reilly in Game 5, says Horvat
  • Blues’ Tarasenko out for remainder of series vs Canucks