In the latest episode of the San Jose Hockey Now Podcast, Sheng Peng spoke with Joe Will, the assistant general manager for the San Jose Sharks. They discussed the Sharks’ ongoing search for a third-string goaltender and what qualifications they are seeking for that position.
During the interview, Will mentioned, “The No. 3 goaltender we’re looking at would ideally have more of a prospect aspect. Likely younger, someone we can develop over time rather than just having someone on board for one season.”
San Jose faces limited options in free agency, with Kevin Lankinen being one of the top remaining available netminders. At 29 years old, Lankinen has recently enjoyed two commendable seasons as a backup with the Nashville Predators; however, he may not be inclined to accept a third-string position. Given his age and current standing in his career, Lankinen does not align with what San Jose is aiming to find.
The Sharks may need to pursue trades to identify suitable candidates. Potential trade partners could include the Columbus Blue Jackets and Florida Panthers.
If there is no impending buyout involving Columbus, they will likely continue with Elvis Merzlikins among their goaltenders while awaiting Daniil Tarasov‘s progression into a starting role. The Sharks might consider acquiring netminder Jet Greaves, who has primarily played for their AHL affiliate, the Cleveland Monsters.
Over four seasons with the Monsters, Greaves participated in 118 games, achieving a record of 61-40-12 along with a .905 save percentage and a goals against average of 2.96. He could potentially be included in a larger trade deal that involves winger Patrik Laine, especially if San Jose is open to assuming Laine’s full $8.7 million salary over two years.
A similar opportunity exists with Florida if they choose to offload an excessive salary burden. Spencer Knight—who was selected as the 13th overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft—spent all of last season playing for Charlotte Checkers in the AHL where he posted a .905 SV% across 45 games. Knight is expected to take on backup duties this season for defending Stanley Cup Champions but carries an annual salary cap hit of $4.5 million over two years.
This would allow Florida room to seek out more affordable alternatives at backup goalie while also benefiting from additional cap space throughout their campaign if they decide on such moves involving Knight who could then work toward becoming a starter within Sharks’ organization.
Sharks Seek Young Goaltender Prospect as Trade Market Options Emerge
Overview of the Sharks’ Goaltending Situation
The San Jose Sharks are currently navigating a pivotal point in their franchise’s history. With a mix of experienced players and emerging young talent, the Sharks are looking to bolster their goaltending position as the trade market options begin to unfold. Recent trends in the NHL indicate a growing demand for young goaltender prospects, making this an opportune moment for the Sharks to explore potential trade opportunities.
Current Goaltending Landscape
The Sharks have faced challenges in their goaltending department in recent seasons. Key factors contributing to this situation include:
– **Inconsistent Performance**: The Sharks’ current goaltenders have struggled with consistency, leading to fluctuations in team performance.
– **Ageing Veterans**: The presence of ageing goaltenders has prompted the need for a future-focused strategy that includes younger talent.
– **Emerging Young Talent**: The NHL is seeing a rise in young goaltenders making their mark, underscoring the importance of investing in future talent.
Why Young Goaltender Prospects Are Valuable
Investing in a young goaltender prospect can provide numerous benefits for teams like the Sharks. Here are some key advantages:
– **Cost-Effectiveness**: Young goaltenders on entry-level contracts can provide significant salary cap relief while contributing at a high level.
– **Development Potential**: With proper coaching and experience, young goaltenders can develop into elite starters, offering long-term stability in net.
– **Trade Value**: Young, promising goaltenders often carry high trade value, which can be leveraged for future deals.
The Trade Market Landscape
As the trade market heats up, several factors will influence the Sharks’ decision-making process:
– **Team Needs**: Assessing the immediate and long-term needs of the team will help identify the right prospects to target.
- **Available Talent**: A thorough evaluation of available young goaltenders in the trade market is essential for making informed decisions.
– **Prospect Pool**: Understanding the depth of the Sharks’ current prospect pool will guide their approach.
Potential Trade Targets for the Sharks
Here are some young goaltender prospects that could be of interest to the Sharks, along with their attributes:
| Prospect Name | Current Team | Age | Notable Attributes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jakob Markstrom | Vancouver Canucks | 23 | Strong athleticism, quick reflexes |
| Spencer Knight | Florida Panthers | 22 | Excellent puck handling, poised under pressure |
| Carter Hart | Philadelphia Flyers | 25 | Great positioning, high hockey IQ |
| Jeremy Swayman | Boston Bruins | 24 | Sound fundamentals, strong work ethic |
Benefits of Acquiring a Young Goaltender
The acquisition of a young goaltender prospect can have immediate and long-term benefits for the Sharks:
– **Immediate Impact**: A young goaltender can bring fresh energy and performance levels that can invigorate the entire roster.
– **Long-Term Strategy**: Investing in a promising talent helps to secure a stable future in net, allowing the team to build around a reliable starter.
– **Fan Engagement**: Showcasing a young, talented goaltender can enhance fan engagement and excitement, leading to increased attendance and support.
Case Studies of Successful Young Goaltender Acquisitions
To further illustrate the potential benefits of acquiring a young goaltender, let’s look at some recent success stories:
– **Igor Shesterkin (New York Rangers)**: Drafted in 2014, Shesterkin quickly rose through the ranks and established himself as a top goaltender in the NHL, even earning a Vezina Trophy nomination.
– **Juuse Saros (Nashville Predators)**: After being selected in the 4th round of the 2013 draft, Saros developed into a reliable starting goaltender, showcasing the value of patience in development.
Practical Tips for Evaluating Goaltender Prospects
When assessing young goaltender prospects, consider the following practical tips to ensure informed decision-making:
– **Statistical Analysis**: Review performance statistics, including save percentage, goals against average, and advanced metrics like expected goals.
– **Scouting Reports**: Analyze scouting reports that provide insights into the goaltender’s strengths, weaknesses, and potential for growth.
– **Game Footage**: Watching game footage can provide a clearer picture of a goaltender’s decision-making, positioning, and composure under pressure.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from NHL Scouts
NHL scouts play a crucial role in identifying potential goaltender prospects. Here are some insights from scouts regarding what they look for in young goaltenders:
– **Mental Resilience**: “A goaltender’s mindset is crucial. We look for players who can stay calm under pressure and bounce back after a tough game.”
– **Technical Skills**: “Solid fundamentals are a must. We assess their skating ability, positioning, and puck-handling skills closely.”
– **Work Ethic**: “A goaltender who is willing to put in the extra work in practice can often develop into a great player.”
Conclusion: The Path Forward for the Sharks
In this evolving landscape, the Sharks are positioned to make strategic moves that could significantly impact their future. By exploring trade opportunities for young goaltender prospects, they can not only enhance their current roster but also lay the groundwork for sustained success. Whether it’s scouting emerging talents or leveraging existing assets, the Sharks have a unique opportunity to redefine their goaltending situation and build a competitive team for years to come.
By staying proactive in the trade market, the Sharks can position themselves to acquire the young goaltender they need to reclaim their spot as a playoff contender in the NHL.
