BREAKING: Sharks Relinquish Rights to Karlis Cukste

San Jose Hockey Now has learned from multiple sources that the San Jose Sharks organization have relinquished the NHL rights to 2015 fifth-round draft pick Karlis Cukste.

August 15th was the deadline for the Sharks to sign the 23-year-old Quinnipiac University defenseman to an entry-level contract.

The 6-foot-4 blueliner scored 18 points for the Bobcats this year, also serving as an alternate captain.

Cukste is now an unrestricted free agent. Two weeks ago, reports circulated that the Latvian native was working out with Dinamo Riga. It’s unclear at the moment whether or not Cukste has signed with the KHL side.

It’s worth noting that the Sharks’ decision does not preclude Cukste from re-joining the San Jose organization by signing a contract with the San Jose Barracuda.

Texts to Cukste’s agent were not returned.