On the San Jose Sharks …
Paul Gackle of The Mercury News: With the Sharks trades yesterday, they were able to move out the remaining two years and $8 million contract of Mikkel Boedker.
“This series of trades has allowed us to accomplish several organizational goals,” Wilson said in a statement. “We have witnessed some tremendous growth in our younger forwards over the past season and we feel that we have another group of players that are ready to challenge for additional ice time.”
The Sharks were able to add some extra draft picks and create more salary cap space to take a run at a top-six forward. GM Doug Wilson made it clear on Monday morning that he is looking to add another high-end forward. The Sharks will have between $15 and $19 million cap space.
The Sharks are expected to take a run at free agent John Tavares if he becomes available, and they’ve already met with Ilya Kovalchuk.
Joe Thornton is a UFA and they could be looking to sign him to another deal. Pending RFAs include Tomas Hertl, Chris Tierney and Dylan DeMelo.
Paul Gackle of The Mercury News: The Sharks plan on being active in the free agent market, but it doesn’t guarantee they’ll land a top free agent(s). GM Doug Wilson also added that they could save some cap space for an in-season trade.
“If the season started tomorrow, I like our team a lot — I really do. But we’re in a position to add,” Wilson said. “Will we add? Yes, we will.”
The Sharks are hoping to have a shot at signing pending UFA John Tavares. Reports recently have the Islanders and Tavares speaking regularly about a new deal. If they don’t reach an agreement by next week, Tavares could meet with three to five teams according to Darren Dreger. Signing Tavares would be a long-shot.
Signs are pointing to Joe Thornton playing another season with the Sharks, likely one-year hometown deal.
If no Tavares, Ilya Kovalchuk is an option over another center. Paul Stastny is the second best option and they shouldn’t be wanting to give him a four-year deal at around $6 million a season.