Former Avalanche nemesis Cal Clutterbuck recently appeared on the “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast to discuss his career in hockey and share stories, among other topics. Clutterbuck started his career with division rival Minnesota but was traded to the NY Islanders after six seasons.
Clutterbuck, a quality fourth line, lunch pail type player who averaged 311 hits per season over his 17-year NHL career, had quite the compliments to heap on Avalanche defenseman Devon Toews during the interview.
When asked about his temperament when Toews was traded to the Avalanche in October 2020, Clutterbuck said there was some shock, but the Islanders had no choice but to make a move, as they had a gluttony of defensemen. The Avalanche brass obviously saw an opportunity to obtain a quality player and did so, sending two second round picks back.
Clutterbuck continued to heap praise on Toews, discussing how he is a perfect fit as a partner for Norris Trophy winner Cale Makar, as Toews knows his lane and lets Cale do what he does. Toews knows the right times to add himself into the mix as well.
He described Tazer as having an excellent first pass, vital for a quality defenseman, and that he’s an excellent skater, also vital in the new-age, high paced NHL.
As Clutterbuck is universally respected throughout the league, a glowing recommendation of Toews’ game is not to be taken lightly.
Nor is it inaccurate. Toews has been a tremendous asset for the organization since he was acquired, scoring 232 points across 357 games wearing the burgundy and blue sweater. He’s had three seasons of ten plus goals, and more than 30 assists four different times.
Toews is a plus player every year, with a career high of +52 in 2021-22. He is a career +186 over his career. When Toews is on the ice, the team scores goals. More importantly, the team does not give up goals when he's out there.
The 31-year-old blue liner always seems to be in the right position at the right time. His positioning and technique put him in positions to succeed. His steady ability and tendency to be more defensive minded helps him be the yin to Makar’s yang.
Without Toews, Makar may not be able to reach the offensive heights he has of late, totaling 30 goals last season. It’s obvious Toews has quite the sense for the game, and is capable of being offensive minded as well, but has the wherewithal to remain steadfast in his defense-first approach.
Toews has provided quality in the playoffs as well, having his best postseason during the Avalanche Cup run of 2021-22 with 15 points in 20 games. Toews ups his physical impact in the playoffs, averaging over one hit per game during the second season. He’s also smart with the puck, registering more takeaways than giveaways three times as a member of the Avalanche.
Clutterbuck was right in heaping praise on Toews. The Islanders chose a different player to sign to a contract, and the Avalanche can continue to thank them for their choice, as Toews has been a quality find for the organization. Signed through 2030, its clear the match between Toews and the team has more to come.