SOURCE: Barabanov, Sharks Talking Contract Soon (+)

Alexander Barabanov could be headed for his big NHL payday.

It’s my understanding that San Jose Sharks interim GM Joe Will could be speaking with Barabanov’s camp as soon as this week about the pending UFA’s contract.

Barabanov, 27, has been a revelation since the Sharks acquired him from the Toronto Maple Leafs for Antti Suomela last Trade Deadline. The second-year winger has 46 points in 76 games in teal, including 39 points in 67 appearances this season.

The Sharks signed Barabanov for one year, $1 million dollars last off-season. When the Leafs plucked Barabanov from the KHL in Apr. 2020, they gave him a one-year, $925,000 two-way deal.

So what might Alexander Barabanov be looking for this time around? It might be less than you expect.