Sharks should make another push …
James O’Brien of NBC Sports: The San Jose Sharks have around $4.4 million in salary cap space. There are some trade options that could be available to them.
One thing the Sharks need to take into consideration would be about taking on a player who may be little older as they have an aging core.
Max Pacioretty is 29-years old, with Jeff Skinner being less of risk at 26-years old.
The Sharks window to win could close soon, so they should consider taking a big swing for it. There isn’t much left on the free agent market.
Do the Canucks need to clear some room on their blue line?
Jason Botchford of the Vancouver Province: The Vancouver Canucks wanted to be active in the trade market but things haven’t been easy as the market for some of their veterans hasn’t been big. The Canucks have seven defenseman under contract for next season, so if 2018 first-round pick Quinn Hughes is ready, they’ll need to create some space.
Looking at some of their trade options.
Alex Edler – Still has value and given that the Canucks are rebuilding, it might be the time to move him. He has no-trade clause and it appears that he doesn’t want to waive it.
Chris Tanev – Has two-years left at $4.45 million with a modified no-trade clause. Injuries have lowered his trade value and the trade offers they’ve been getting reflect that. They can’t give him away.
Erik Gudbranson – Three years on his deal at $4 million per. Most teams don’t want to pay that for a third pairing defenseman. The Canucks like the size he brings.
Ben Hutton – Entering the last year of his deal at $2.8 million cap hit, a $2.4 million salary. Would be an RFA after this season. Might be too much money to move after a six-point season.
Michael Del Zotto – Entering the last year of his deal at a $3 million salary cap hit. There won’t be a long list of teams interested.
Derrick Pouliot – Signed a one-year $1.1 million deal and has some trade value. On a reasonable deal so may be worth keeping the 24-year old.
Troy Stecher – A restricted free agent and his size may interest teams. The Canucks aren’t deep on the right side and can be tough to play against, so may be worth holding onto.