The San Jose Sharks continue to grapple with an imbalance in their defensive corps, specifically the lack of right-shot defensemen. Despite efforts to address this need, the team's most promising defenders are predominantly left-handed shooters, creating a challenge in achieving optimal pairing and overall team construction.
After the initial rush of NHL free agency, the Sharks are evaluating their roster, which currently features a surplus of defensemen. General Manager Mike Grier has been active in making moves to address this issue, but the team still has at least eight NHL-caliber blueliners, along with prospects vying for a roster spot. Within this surplus, the lack of right-handed options remains a significant concern.
The Sharks' offseason moves have not clearly addressed the right-shot defenseman problem. The team's most significant blue line signing was lefty Dmitry Orlov. The only righty they've signed is 32-year-old John Klingberg. The Sharks also passed on right-shot defensemen in the draft. Currently, the Sharks' right-handed defensemen under contract are Klingberg, Timothy Liljegren, and Vincent Desharnais, none of whom appear to be long-term solutions.
Several factors contribute to the difficulty in finding suitable right-shot defensemen. The free agent market is currently considered bleak, with limited options available. Many of the available right-shot defensemen are either aging veterans or players with injury concerns. This makes it challenging for the Sharks to find a player who can provide both immediate help and contribute to the team's long-term development.
Potential solutions for the Sharks could involve exploring trade options, offer sheets, or waiver wire acquisitions. The team could also consider signing veteran defensemen to short-term contracts with the intention of trading them at the deadline. Another approach is to target under-the-radar free agents who may be undervalued by other teams.
One such player is Nick Perbix, a right-handed defenseman who previously played for the Tampa Bay Lightning. Perbix is considered a solid third-pairing defenseman with good puck-moving skills and offensive potential. While he may not be viewed as a long-term solution, he could provide a valuable stopgap while top prospects like Sam Dickinson and Luca Cagnoni continue to develop.
The Sharks have a wealth of left-handed defensemen, leading to speculation that they may need to trade one to address the imbalance and potentially acquire a forward. Potential trade candidates include players like Thrun, Thompson, Liljegren, or Ferraro. GM Mike Grier has acknowledged the need to create roster spots for younger players like Dickinson, indicating a willingness to make further changes.
The Sharks' Director of Player Development, Todd Marchant, emphasized that the play of prospects like Sam Dickinson and Michael Misa will determine whether they make the NHL roster. The team is committed to providing opportunities for young players who demonstrate they are ready to compete at the NHL level.
Ultimately, the Sharks' ability to solve their right-shot defenseman problem will depend on a combination of strategic acquisitions, player development, and roster management. The team must identify and pursue opportunities to acquire promising right-handed defensemen while also creating a competitive environment for young players to earn their place in the lineup.
