Trade Incoming: Sharks Hold Luke Kunin Out Of Lineup For "Trade Related Reasons"

Thursday, March 06, 2025

The San Jose Sharks are holding forward Luke Kunin out of tonight's lineup for "trade-related reasons," signaling that a deal is imminent ahead of Friday's trade deadline. 

Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet reported on his 32 Thoughts podcast recently that the Toronto Maple Leafs have had Kunin on their radar, with GM Brad Treliving and head coach Craig Berube valuing his versatility and physicality. 

Kunin, six-feet and 197 pounds, has 11 goals and 18 points across 63 games this season, along with 163 hits. He is a pending UFA with a $2.75 million cap hit, making him an appealing depth addition for playoff contenders.

Friedman noted that Toronto has shown past interest in Kunin, and his ability to play both center and wing, contribute on the penalty kill, and win key defensive-zone faceoffs makes him a fit. 

"I watched him start that fight, and I was like, I don't know what San Jose's plans are here, but I could see Kunin being on Toronto's radar," Friedman said, referencing Kunin's three fights in four seconds during a game against Nashville. 

The Sharks are reportedly seeking at least a second-round pick for their alternate captain.

Calgary has also been linked to Kunin, with Sportsnet's Eric Francis suggesting he could be a short-term fit as a right-shot forward who plays a two-way game. 

However, the Flames are unlikely to part with significant assets for a pending UFA. 

With the Sharks pulling Kunin from the lineup, it appears likely a trade will occur before tomorrow's 3pm deadline.

Photo Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

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