San Jose Sharks Set Price for Tomas Hertl Trade

The San Jose Sharks know there's going to be a huge market for their pending unrestricted free agent, Tomas Hertl. According to Kevin Kurz of The Athletic, the price tag is a first-round pick and a top prospect if you want to get the Sharks attention.

Kurz had this to say in his report:

Along with a first-round pick, they would have to get at least one potential high-end prospect in return, too, and preferably someone who could play NHL games ahead of or along the same timeline as guys like William Eklund, Thomas Bordeleau and some of the other prospects who are around 19 or 20 years old (in other words, probably two years away). In a perfect world that player is probably a center, but considering Ryan Merkley’s declining stock and Brent Burns’ advancing age, a defenseman might be just as welcomed.

Hertl is 27, and will be one of the biggest names on the market. He recorded 43 points in 50 games last season and will make $5.62 million in the final season of his contract. His no-trade protection entails him to submit three teams he's willing to be dealt to. 

The ball is certainly in Hertl's court to control. Expect to see talks pick up as training camp unfolds and teams see what their dealing with on their roster. One team to watch...the Boston Bruins. These two teams could construct a deal before puck drops on opening night.

Photo credit:  John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports