NHL Rankings: Western Conference’s 5 Most Improved Players

Mar 26, 2015; Uniondale, NY, USA; Los Angeles Kings center Tyler Toffoli (73) scores a goal past New York Islanders goalie Jaroslav Halak (41) during the third period at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. The Kings won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

4. Tyler Toffoli 

Toffoli is another player who made a big leap, with his coming in his third season with the Los Angeles Kings. The former second-round pick finished third on the team in goals (23) and points (49). He led the Kings by far with a plus-25 rating as well. At times, Toffoli was the most important player on the ice for Los Angeles.

It seems much of what Toffoli did last season went under the radar as the Kings struggled and ultimately missed the playoffs. He was also bogged down by his team’s depth at center. Toffoli averaged only 14:35 of ice time last season.

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The Kings will need continued growth from Toffoli to help them make a return to the postseason. Head coach Darryl Sutter will need to give the 23-year-old center some more ice time to expedite his progression.

Next: No. 3: Sean Monahan

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