The San Jose Sharks‘ core roster seems set at this point, but management may try to bolster and solidify their depth. Specifically, they could consider adding one more veteran defenseman. They’ve already made some smart moves to acquire experienced players, but most of them have been forwards. The blue line might benefit from the same sort of presence for very similar reasons. Yet, this offseason might not be the right time to bring in such a player, leaving the Sharks with a tough choice.
Sharks’ Young Defenders Could Use Veteran Help
San Jose’s strongest, most NHL-ready prospects are forwards, but plenty of defensemen are on the way. Shakir Mukhamadullin may or may not start 2024-25 in the NHL after three games last season, but he’ll almost certainly have a spot in the lineup at some point during the year. The newly signed Sam Dickinson will reach the big leagues soon, and Luca Cagnoni’s NHL debut is upcoming. Even blueliners with professional experience, such as Henry Thrun and Ty Emberson, could use veteran protection and tutelage.
Veteran defenders can play a crucial role, even if their best playing days are behind them. They can step up in difficult moments, taking over for young players to shut down the opposition’s attack or help run the team’s offense from the point. They are vocal leaders, utilizing their experience to step up in the locker room and provide pointers for emerging blueliners. The Sharks have applied this philosophy to many of their forward acquisitions, and it would make sense for them to do the same on defense. Trading for Jake Walman is a step in this direction, but they could choose to go even further.
If the Sharks’ front office is looking to add veterans, then which defenseman should they sign? Of the remaining free agents, one who immediately jumps out is Kevin Shattenkirk. At 35 years old, he has played 14 NHL seasons, including nearly 100 playoff games. He spent the 2023-24 season with the Boston Bruins, and although he only appeared in 61 games during the regular season, he was highly praised by members of the organization for his team-first attitude, which culminated in a speech ahead of Boston’s first-round Game 7 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs. His leadership and experience could be invaluable for the Sharks as they develop their next defensive foundation.
Should Shattenkirk not be available, San Jose could sign other blueliners…
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