San Jose Sharks Rumors: 4 Trade Candidates On The Market

The San Jose Sharks have started the season with a dismal 0-5-1 record and look like a lock to battle it out for the NHL Draft Lottery. We've seen GM Mike Grier make moves in the past as the rebuild continues in San Jose and we can expect to see much of the same this season.

Here's four Sharks who are prime trade candidates for this season:

Kevin Labanc

What a debacle it's already been this season for Labanc who was told he was going on waivers and then the team decided against it and dressed him for the first time that night. The pending unrestricted free agent winger is on the books for $4.72 million this season and does not hold any trade protection. In his three appearances this season, Labanc hasn't recorded a point. He collected 33 points in 72 games last season. The Calgary Flames, Columbus Blue Jackets and Buffalo Sabres may have interest as the season goes along.

Logan Couture

The Sharks vet is close to returning to action and could start his season in the next game or two. Couture unlike Labanc is locked in through the 2026-27 season at $8 million annually and holds a no-trade clause which allows him to give Grier and the Sharks only three teams he'd be willing to accept a trade to. Couture posted 67 points last season and has an impressive 101 in 116 Stanley Cup Playoff games. Look for the Boston Bruins, Vancouver Canucks and Buffalo Sabres to all at least inquire with the Bruins likely landing on Couture's approval list.

Tomas Hertl

Another Sharks vet who Grier said he'd be fine to ship out of town if they didn't want to stay. Hertl is a gamer and can play all over a lineup. His versatility make him an appealing target for contending teams. Hertl is signed through the 2029-30 season at $8.13 million and holds a full no-movement clause which decreases slightly as the years go by. This season Hertl has recorded five points in his first six games and looks like he'll be one of the lone bright spots for the Sharks this season.

Alexander Barabanov

Interestingly enough Barabanov holds a 10-team no-trade clause and is someone who the Sharks will get calls on. He plays an in-your-face style and is very aggressive on the forecheck. His offensive game is underrated and he's shown in the past with 47 points in 68 games last season, he can find the back of the net. Barabanov is set to make $2.5 million this season and as a rental will be a great third-line addition for a contending team later on this season.