3 Potential Free-Agent Destinations for Kevin Labanc

Kevin Labanc went through it all with the San Jose Sharks. The former Barrie Colts junior star jumped right into the NHL lineup from the OHL in 2016-17 after being selected in the sixth round. Labanc would go on to play eight seasons with the Sharks and after signing a huge four-year deal in 2020, the Sharks forward fell from grace.

Labanc enters free agency after posting two goals and nine points in 46 games as he was making $4.72 million per season against the cap. The New York native isn't going to be making near as much next season and could have to settle for a league minimum contract. Here's three teams to keep an eye on:

Minnesota Wild

The Wild are in the market for a couple of depth players on the cheap who can compete for roles at training camp and Labanc could be the perfect reclamation project for Bill Guerin. Labanc will need to sign a one-year prove it contract, which is perfect for the Wild who are pressed right up against the cap. While he only posted nine points last season, Labanc registered 33 the year before and has hit 50-plus in his career.

Seattle Kraken

The Kraken need more offense and could bring in Labanc on a league minimum deal. It will be shocking to see him not sign a one-way contract, which is likely why he hasn't signed yet to this point. The Kraken could offer Labanc a chance to battle for a fourth-line role and the opportunity to move up the lineup should an injury occur.

New York Islanders

Another team looking for secondary scoring, Labanc is from the area and could go 'home' to the Islanders. New York has just over $1 million in cap space to work with and has only three spots left for NHL contracts. Adding Labanc, who is in search of a change of scenery could be exactly what the Islanders need among their bottom six.

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