SAN JOSE – The San Jose Sharks made strategic moves on the first day of unrestricted free agency, adhering to a budget-conscious approach as they seek to climb out of the NHL standings’ lower echelons. After languishing near the bottom for the past two seasons, the Sharks are looking to make modest improvements with a mix of contract extensions and new acquisitions.
The Sharks signed forward William Eklund to a three-year, $16.8 million contract extension, brought in three unrestricted free agents on short-term deals, and acquired a goaltender they believe can stabilize a historically problematic position. The additions of veteran free agent forwards Adam Gaudette and Philipp Kurashev, defenseman John Klingberg, and goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic from the Pittsburgh Penguins for a 2028 third-round pick mark a concerted effort to bolster the roster.
Strategic Signings and Extensions
Whether these acquisitions will be enough to lift the Sharks remains uncertain. General Manager Mike Grier expressed optimism, noting that these moves, combined with the development of younger players, should result in a more competitive team. “We’re going to take a step forward,” Grier stated. “I know there are times where we want to speed this thing up, but I think naturally we’ll take a step forward.”
The Sharks wasted no time in extending Eklund, 22, whose contract was eligible for renewal on Tuesday. Although a long-term deal could have made him the highest-paid forward, both parties opted for a bridge deal, anticipating a larger payday once the NHL’s salary cap exceeds $110 million. The cap is set at $95.5 million this season, with projections of $113.5 million by 2027-28.
“I think for both parties, we wanted to see an extension here,” Eklund said. “We wanted to finish it before next year, and I think it worked out pretty well. We both want to keep this thing going forward and keep getting better.”
Last season, Eklund was the Sharks’ second-leading scorer, recording 58 points and solidifying his role in the lineup. His new deal will make him the second-highest-paid forward by 2026-27, trailing only Tyler Toffoli.
New Faces and Veteran Experience
Gaudette, entering his eighth NHL season, signed a two-year, $4 million contract and is expected to serve as a fourth-line forward. Kurashev joins on a one-year, $1.2 million deal, potentially filling a middle-six role if he can return to his form from two seasons ago when he scored 54 points in 75 games with the Blackhawks.
Klingberg, 32, addresses a need for a right-shot defenseman with offensive capabilities. Over his 12-year career, Klingberg has been a top scorer among defensemen, although his production has waned following hip surgeries. His recent stint with the Oilers saw him contribute during their playoff run, and he is expected to enhance the Sharks’ power play.
“He’s moving better and better,” Grier commented on Klingberg’s recovery. “The playmaking has always been there. We think that the potential is there with another summer of rehab, strengthening, and conditioning.”
Shoring Up the Goaltending
Nedeljkovic, entering the final year of his contract, was acquired to compete with rookie Yaroslav Askarov. Last season, the Sharks struggled defensively, allowing a league-high 3.78 goals per game and posting a .881 team save percentage. With Nedeljkovic’s experience, the Sharks aim to improve their defensive stats.
The Sharks had limited options in free agency, choosing to trade for Nedeljkovic, who has a career .903 save percentage and nine shutouts. His familiarity with Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky is seen as an asset.
“For us, it was important to have someone who can push (Askarov) and also compete with him,” Grier explained. “He’s going to be someone that (Askarov) can learn from, but also compete with.”
Looking Forward
The Sharks’ recent moves reflect a strategic balance between immediate improvements and long-term potential. As the team integrates new talent and nurtures existing players, the upcoming season will test their ability to escape the NHL’s lower ranks. While the path to success remains challenging, the Sharks’ calculated approach may lay the groundwork for a brighter future.
As the NHL season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if these strategic moves translate into tangible progress on the ice.
