On Friday, the San Jose Sharks agreed to terminate forward Andrew Poutalski’s contract at the request of the player.
The AHL’s reigning MVP has been linked to the KHL and was non-committal following the San Jose Barracuda’s second-round exit from the playoffs.
“I am grateful to the Sharks organization for allowing me to experience something different before the end of my career,” Poturalski said in a release. “The Sharks are a first-class organization, and it has been great playing for them”.
Poturalski signed a two-year contract with the Sharks in the Summer of 2024. The 31-year-old is one of the most prolific scorers in the AHL and has been deep in the Calder Cup Playoffs.
“We thank Andrew for his contributions to the San Jose organization, and wish him and his family all the best,” Sharks Assistant General Manager Joe Will said.
San Jose Sharks head coach Ryan Warsofsky and Poturalski have a relationship that dates back to their time together with the Charlotte Checkers. The centerman told reporters that he seeks more NHL opportunities during exit interviews. Warsofsky understands the move, saying he needs to do what is best for him and his family.
“We talked about this decision, and I get it. I get both sides of it. He’s got to do what’s best for his career,” Warsofsky explained. “Unfortunately, we just couldn’t get him up here more than we wanted to. We wish him all the best, but he’s going to make a decision that’s best for him and his family.”
Poturalski played three games in the NHL this season and recorded one assist. He’s played nine games in the NHL in his career.
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