San Jose Sharks general manager Mike Grier told reporters he’s in the market for a top-nine winger.
The Sharks aren’t done making moves this off-season and want to add to the forward depth.
“We’ll just keep our eyes open,” Grier said on Thursday. “We could probably use a top-nine winger if something like that comes available.”
The Fourth Period reported that the Sharks want to add a top-six forward to their lineup without overpaying too much.
The easiest Sharks add is Victor Olofsson
If the Sharks want to go the route of free agency to add, former Vegas Golden Knights forward Victor Olofsson would be the best fit. After an injury-filled season of 24-25, Olofsson only played 56 games.
Despite the limited games, the winger scored 15 goals and had a plus-17 rating. The winger has scored over 20 goals in three different seasons. He was well on pace to beat 20 goals in 24-25 before injuries.
The Sharks are looking for a depth offensive addition, which Olofsson fits perfectly. That was his role with the Golden Knights. While often playing in the middle-six, Olofsson regularly got power-play time due to his elite shot.
During the playoffs, Olofsson featured on the Knights’ top power-play unit.
He is due for a raise, but will still be reasonably cheap. His cap hit last season was $1.075 million.
Sharks could try to trade for another VGK winger
Another option for the San Jose Sharks would be to determine the Golden Knights’ price for Pavel Dorofeyev. The 24-year-old winger had a breakout season with 35 goals in 82 games.
Placed on the second line with former Sharks center Tomas Hertl, Dorofeyev was a perfect complement to the top players. With the addition of Mitch Marner, the Knights will need to shed salary.
Dorofeyev is one year away from RFA status and makes $1,835,000. Although the Golden Knights likely hold a high price for the winger, the Sharks certainly have the assets to acquire him.
Sharks could look to Panthers for winger help
Another option for San Jose Sharks GM Mike Grier is Florida Panthers forward Evan Rodrigues. According to PuckPedia, the Panthers are $2.95 million over the cap.
Rodrigues is a proven depth scorer in the NHL. His cap hit is $3 million with two years remaining on his deal.
Similar to Olofsson, both come from the Buffalo Sabres organization and were linemates with Jack Eichel.
Rodrigues only scored two goals during the Panthers’ second run to the Stanley Cup, but finished with 15 points in 21 games. If the Sharks acquire the Panthers’ forward, they would be adding a good-skating, responsible, and playmaking forward. Rodrigues can also slide to the center position in a pinch.
Adding the 31-year-old brings more Stanley Cup pedigree, similar to that of Dmitry Orlov and Nick Leddy, as well as quality play.
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