San Jose Sharks GM Mike Grier is not shy to make a bold move as he continues to rebuild his roster, one losing season at a time. The Sharks are going to be in the mix to land top prospect Macklin Celebrini at this year's NHL Entry Draft, after landing one of the NCAA's top free-agent prospects in Collin Graf. While Grier continues to add young talent to his roster, look for the Sharks executive to hit the trade market once again this summer.
Grier's made 30! trades since the start of the 2022 offseason and has made it known if there's a veteran on his roster another team is interested in, he's open to making a deal work between the two clubs as he's zoned in on the long-term future of the Sharks.
Here's three Sharks who could be involved in Grier's next trade this summer:
Mikael Granlund
There was a lot of talk about Granlund being shipped out ahead of the trade deadline, but nothing materialized. His versatility and ability to play anywhere among the middle six, could serve a contending team well for next season. Granlund's signed for the 2024-25 season at $5 million and does not hold any trade protection. He's been a bright spot for the Sharks, recording 52 points in 62 games and is a prime trade candidate for Grier.
Logan Couture
Couture's admitted the only reason he hasn't been traded yet by Grier is the fact he's getting up there and is signed to a massive contract. The 35-year-old vet has three seasons left on his deal at $8 million per season and of late, he's been battling injuries constantly. He'll submit a list of three teams on July 1 he'd be open to being traded to, but you have to think Couture would expand on his list if Grier mentioned something was on the table. Grier's shown a willingness to retain salary in trades, we've seen it with Hertl, Burns and Karlsson, Couture needs that to have any chance of being moved and not 18% like the others, more like 40-50% of his AAV.
Jan Rutta
At 33 years old, Rutta isn't going to be around when the Sharks are a playoff team, he has one season left on his deal, has had a strong season, and as a right-handed d-man with some edge, will be a prime trade candidate this summer. Rutta's signed for next season at $2.75 million and does not have any trade protection. He's been a bright spot this season in San Jose, recording 18 points in 64 games, blocking 103 shots while playing close to 20 minutes a night. Right-handed defenseman are hard to find, Grier should cash in while he still can.
Photo credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
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