Kyle Clifford’s resumé speaks for itself. The gritty winger has appeared in 55 playoff games throughout his career and is a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Los Angeles Kings. His value was recognized by Toronto Maple Leafs GM Kyle Dubas, who brought in Clifford ahead of the 2020 trade deadline to help his team down the stretch, and in the playoffs.
With 17 points across 69 games played this season, the Senators won’t be counting on Clifford to bring any offence. However, his comfortable play in the defensive end at 5v5 and on the penalty-kill make him a very useful bottom-six option. Additionally, his willingness to drop the gloves and stick up for teammates certainly fits the mold of players that D.J Smith and Pierre Dorion have previously been very high on.
Kyle Clifford is not a plug by any means, even if that's his reputation. He's one of the better 4th liners in the NHL, consistently average at even strength and quite good on the PK. He's also had an odd surge in the past two seasons. #Leafs pic.twitter.com/rlXoc34mDB
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) February 6, 2020
Clifford could quickly become unavailable with there being apparent mutual interest between him and the Leafs extending his contract. However, with the uncertainty of the league’s salary situation due to the COVID-19 shut down, Kyle Clifford certainly could find himself in need of work come this fall. With his proven quality and boatload of cap space the Senators have, this certainly could make sense for all parties.