The San Jose Sharks need a right-handed defenseman, and Dante Fabbro could be the player to fill the need.
Fabbro is a former first-round pick of the Nashville Predators and had a rough start to the 2024-2025 season. The Predators ultimately placed Fabbro on waivers, and the Columbus Blue Jackets claimed him.
After arriving at CBJ and being paired with perennial Norris Trophy winner Zach Werenski, Fabbro’s season turned for the better. In Nashville, Fabbro averaged 13:06 TOI over six games, compared to the 21:39 in Columbus in 62 games.
As a right-handed defenseman, Fabbro fits something the Sharks require. Jan Rutta appears to be headed to free agency, leaving a hole behind. As it stands, Vincent Desharnais, Jack Thompson (RFA), and Timothy Liljegren are the only righties on the blue line.
Dante Fabbro is also only 27 years old. He fills a need for the San Jose Sharks at a time when he can push for an expanded role. He won’t be asked to be the No. 1 defenseman, at least not long term, but he might be on the top pair.
Working with Werenski was some of the best hockey Fabbro played, not only last season, but in his career. Fabbro was plus-23 on Columbus and set career high-highs in goals (9) and points (26).
Fabbro’s last contract was a one-year deal at $2.5 million. While deserving of a fairly significant raise, Fabbro is a perfect candidate for San Jose Sharks GM Mike Grier to slightly overpay in AAV to get him to sign. The Sharks project to have the most cap space in the NHL at $41,757,499.
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