The San Jose Sharks are navigating a complex situation with pending unrestricted free agent Kiefer Sherwood, while also facing speculation about a potential move for Artemi Panarin [6]. Sherwood, acquired from the Vancouver Canucks, quickly became a topic of discussion due to his impending free agency [6].
Sherwood's Future Uncertain
There appears to be a "big gap" between what the Sharks are willing to offer Sherwood and what he is seeking [6]. Some speculate that Sherwood might be asking for a $5 million per year deal, which the Sharks may not be willing to meet [3]. One fan noted that if Sherwood's asking price is around $30 million, the Sharks should pass [3]. While Sherwood did "very good work" [4], some suggest his performance benefited from "picking up the scraps and getting players that other teams left to be signed [4]." Sherwood himself expressed surprise at being traded from Vancouver [8]. As one fan put it, "He’s no superstar, just a guy" [1].
Panarin to San Jose?
Amidst the Sherwood situation, rumors have surfaced about Artemi Panarin potentially joining the Sharks [6]. One fan suggested that acquiring Panarin might be relatively inexpensive, as the New York Rangers are reportedly willing to work out a deal to send him to a team of his choice [5]. However, another fan expressed a lack of interest in acquiring Panarin [5].
TL;DR
- The San Jose Sharks and Kiefer Sherwood are reportedly far apart in contract negotiations as he approaches unrestricted free agency.
- A potential deal for Artemi Panarin to join the Sharks has been mentioned, though fan interest appears mixed.
- The Sharks acquired Kiefer Sherwood from the Vancouver Canucks, adding to their forward options [6, 8].
- Some fans believe the Sharks shouldn't overpay for Sherwood, viewing him as a replaceable player [1, 3].