The San Jose Sharks Make Strategic Moves to Bolster Forward Depth
In a bid to fortify their roster and ease the transition for their newest talents, the San Jose Sharks executed a series of strategic acquisitions on Wednesday. These moves are designed to bolster their forward depth as they gear up for an impending youth movement.
Key Acquisitions: Goodrow and Dellandrea
The Sharks claimed Barclay Goodrow off waivers from the New York Rangers and traded with the Dallas Stars to acquire Ty Dellandrea. These acquisitions aim to provide a cushion for the projected No. 1 overall pick in this year's draft, Macklin Celebrini, and Will Smith, who was picked fourth overall last year.
Goodrow's Return to San Jose
Barclay Goodrow's return to San Jose is not just about adding depth. His invaluable playoff experience will be crucial for mentoring younger players. General Manager Mike Grier has been on the lookout for veteran forwards to guide the youth on the team. Goodrow previously spent six seasons with the Sharks, where he scored 26 goals and notched 45 assists. His successful stints with the Tampa Bay Lightning and New York Rangers have only added to his resume. Goodrow was instrumental in several deep playoff runs, which include scoring an iconic overtime goal in Game 7 of the first round against Vegas in 2019, helping San Jose reach the Western Conference Finals.
The veteran forward also contributed significantly to Tampa Bay's back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2020 and 2021. Moreover, he played a pivotal role in the Rangers' journey to the Eastern Conference Finals over the last two years. The Toronto native has amassed 169 points in 572 regular-season games and added 24 more points in 97 playoff games since his NHL debut in 2014.
Financial Implications for the Rangers
Claiming Goodrow off waivers also has financial implications for the New York Rangers. It saves them $3.6 million against the salary cap each of the next three seasons. However, taking on Goodrow's contract from the Rangers was a calculated risk by the Sharks, indicating their commitment to adding experienced players to their roster.
Adding Ty Dellandrea
The addition of Ty Dellandrea is another strategic move designed to add depth to the Sharks' lineup. Dellandrea played 42 games for the Stars this season, contributing two goals and seven assists. He ranked sixth among forwards on his team with 63 hits and was fifth in penalty kill time among Stars forwards.
Although he was picked 13th overall by Dallas in 2018, Dellandrea has not yet translated his draft potential into significant offensive numbers. He has registered 14 goals and 28 assists in 151 career NHL games, and has recorded four goals in 24 career playoff games. His restricted free agent status in July gives the Sharks his arbitration rights. During the recent playoffs, he scored one goal in six games for Dallas.
Hopes for Dellandrea
The Sharks hope that Dellandrea's physicality and penalty-killing abilities will add a well-rounded support system for integrating younger talent into their lineup. His blend of experience and grit is expected to provide a much-needed balance to the Sharks' forward depth.
Looking Towards the Future
The San Jose Sharks' recent acquisitions of Goodrow and Dellandrea are underscored by strategic foresight. General Manager Mike Grier's efforts in blending seasoned veterans with emerging talents aim to create a balanced and competitive team. The intent is to provide a foundation of experience to help nurture young prospects like Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith.
These calculated roster adjustments demonstrate the Sharks' commitment to both immediate improvement and sustainable future success. By integrating experienced players like Goodrow and promising talents like Dellandrea, the Sharks are laying the groundwork for a robust future while attempting to enhance their current competitive edge.
As Brandon Magnus from NHLI via Getty Images noted, "Barclay Goodrow scored 26 goals and notched 45 assists in six seasons with the San Jose Sharks." His return, coupled with Dellandrea’s addition, signifies the Sharks' strategic approach to fortify their lineup and mentor their young talents.
The blend of experience and youth in the roster changes positions the San Jose Sharks as a team to watch in the coming season, with aspirations not only for short-term success but also for long-term growth and sustainability.