The Chicago Blackhawks face a crucial offseason, with their primary focus on securing a contract extension for star player Connor Bedard. The team also needs to address the youth on their blue line, as all seven defensemen currently under contract are under 24 years old. Decisions loom regarding pending unrestricted free agents Ilya Mikheyev and Sam Lafferty. Additionally, the Blackhawks must evaluate Andre Burakovsky’s future, as he enters the final year of his contract with a $5 million cap hit and has not reached significant offensive milestones since the 2021-22 season.
Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks are in dire need of strengthening their defense. With only Dmitry Orlov and Sam Dickinson currently under contract, and Shakir Mukhamadullin an RFA, the Sharks must prioritize additions to their blue line. Veteran defensemen Mario Ferraro and Vincent Desharnais are unrestricted free agents and could be re-signed. To be competitive next season, the Sharks will likely need one or two significant defensive acquisitions.
Potential free agent targets for the Sharks include:
- Darren Raddysh (Tampa Bay Lightning): The 30-year-old could bolster their power play.
- John Carlson (Anaheim Ducks): While age is a concern at 36, he could serve as a veteran bridge for developing prospects.
- Jacob Trouba (Anaheim Ducks): General Manager Mike Grier is familiar with Trouba from their time with the New York Rangers. The 32-year-old offers the size and physicality Grier desires.
- Rasmus Andersson (Vegas Golden Knights): He is reportedly inclined to re-sign with Vegas, even prior to their trade for him.
Possible trade targets for the Sharks include:
- Simon Nemec (New Jersey Devils): Opinions vary on Nemec, and his future with the Devils under new GM Sunny Mehta is uncertain.
- Filip Hronek (Vancouver Canucks): While potentially available, Hronek would likely command a high price. He is viewed as a top-three defenseman.
- Darnell Nurse (Edmonton Oilers): The primary drawback is his substantial $9.25 million cap hit through 2030 for the 31-year-old.
- Morgan Rielly (Toronto Maple Leafs): Questions surround his offensive production, defensive game, and mobility at 32 years old. He is under contract through 2030 with a $7.5 million cap hit.
- Dougie Hamilton (New Jersey Devils): With two years remaining on his $9 million contract, the 32-year-old previously blocked a trade to San Jose. The Sharks’ potential improvement might influence his decision this offseason.
Other players who could become targets or be made available include Roman Josi, Josh Morrissey, Adam Fox, Vladislav Gavrikov, Brandon Montour, Vince Dunn, Colton Parayko, Bowen Byram, and Owen Power.