Yeesh...no, altitude acclimatization is not the reason for Huberdeau's poor play. The adjustment period initially is 1-3 days for normal activity, and anywhere from 14-20 days for athletics.
If Toffoli didn't look right last year, it's because he wasn't in good shape. The clubs and endless opportunities for poutine in Montreal will do that to someone.
Huberdeau likely wasn't in top shape to start the year either. Florida played a high-tempo game, but it wasn't like they played a physical game or put energy into defending. All that takes fitness, and it's clear that Huberdeau wasn't ready for the Sutter style of game to start the year.
To his credit, since about game 30 or so, Huberdeau has looked physically capable of handling the pace that Sutter demands, which is about how long it took Toffoli, Tkachuk, Gaudreau, and anyone else that I can remember.
But enough derailment. It's great to see Toffoli's season unfold. I was told by some posters that he was a waste of a contract and the assets we traded to get him. It was silly then and it looks downright moronic now.
It's also why you should never count out guys who have proven in the past that they can produce at a high level. So for all you Huberdeau haters out there, you best come correct.
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"You know, that's kinda why I came here, to show that I don't suck that much" ~ Devin Cooley, Professional Goaltender
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