"7 teams since 2020": Tyler Toffoli's wife Cat embraces struggle of moving states & countries as an NHL wife

Modified Aug 11, 2024 13:31 GMT

Tyler Toffoli signed a four year, $24 million contract with the San Jose Sharks on the first day of free agency, July 1. While this contract came with long-term security for Tyler, it was also a challenging move that took a toll on his wife, Cat Belanger.

Belanger shared a photo in her Instagram Story detailing the packing and unpacking of their belongings as they moved from Winnipeg to San Jose, California. She first shared a picture of numerous boxes in their house with a message that read:

"San Jose, California. Finally-unpacking. Not pictured the 5 billion other boxes in the garage."

She later shared another picture where the boxes were all open and there was so much paper trash in her house. She wrote:

"7 teams since 2020 - unpacking is chaotic in the most therapeutic way."

For hockey wives, constant relocation to a new place is a regular thing. Especially for mid-level players, whose demands shift from team to team. For some it happens every season and for some with a gap of a few years.

Tyler Toffoli's statement on joining San Jose Sharks

Tyler Toffoli joined the San Jose Sharks, excited by their rebuilding efforts and recent draft picks. In a statement to NHL.com, Toffoli appreciated Sharks fan base.

"I think the opportunity was there for me, and obviously the rebuild they have started," Toffoli said about Sharks (via NHL.com). "And the draft that they just had, they drafted a couple of guys who are cornerstones for the organization. So, it's an exciting time. Obviously, I started my career in L.A. Knowing how passionate the fan base is definitely encouraged me to make my decision."

Sharks GM Mike Grier praised Toffoli's scoring ability and championship experience.

“Tyler is a proven veteran scorer who provides a significant offensive boost to our forward group,” Grier said. “He has a championship pedigree, winning a Stanley Cup in 2014 along with achieving two gold medals in the World Championship. His experience will be a valuable addition to our team.”

Tyler Toffoli won a Stanley Cup with the Kings in 2014 and has 521 points in 812 NHL games and 46 points in 93 playoffs.