Reimer & Bonino Not Sure What’s Next, But Open To Coming Back to 2023-24 Sharks

Nick Bonino and James Reimer both know their time with the San Jose Sharks could be up soon.

But neither pending UFA is rushing out the door, even though the Trade Deadline is just around the corner.

“I’ve made it clear with Mike and Quinny, I really enjoy it here,” Bonino told San Jose Hockey Now. “I love playing here.”

Reimer echoed that same message to SJHN.

Both, however, figure to be sought-after commodities over the next 48 hours. The Trade Deadline is 12 PM PT on Friday.

Bonino started the season with just one assist in 20 games, but in his last 38 contests, he’s put up a very respectable 10 goals and eight assists.

But more important than that offense, the 34-year-old center-winger brings Stanley Cup-winning experience and a reliable, detailed 200-foot game to a contender.

Case in point, Jacob MacDonald’s goal on Tuesday. Bonino didn’t get an assist, but it was his initial forecheck that caused the Canadiens turnover that his teammate was able to take advantage of.

“The small things are one of the things I do well,” the ace penalty killer, shot blocker, and faceoff specialist said. “Maybe doesn’t get noticed.”

Like Bonino, Reimer has struggled at times this season.

The 34-year-old goaltender has an .895 Save % right now, well below his career .912.

But he’s also been the picture of consistency throughout his 13-year career, with a .900-or-better Save % in every season of his career. So I wouldn’t bet against him getting back there this year.

Reimer could be a steady 1B goalie or a high-end backup for a contender.

Both Reimer and Bonino would also be off-the-charts locker room additions, according to San Jose Sharks head coach David Quinn.

“Obviously, I’ve known Nick a long time. Nick and I have a strong relationship,” Quinn said of his current alternate captain and former Boston University product . “For me, not only the player he is, but the person he is and the leader he is, how well respected he is, goes a long way for us and where we’re at.”

The bench boss repeated the same theme with Reimer: “He’s exactly what you need in the situation we’re in.”

Quinn added, “He handles [not playing] in such a professional manner, and his teammates love him and respect him. And he’s a good goalie still.”

It’s been a tough season for the 18-31-12 San Jose Sharks. But it’s tougher if you don’t have professionals around, and both Bonino and Reimer are certainly that.

Slowly but surely, it looks like the Sharks are going to get younger. Even then though, you still need pros like Bonino and Reimer to show the youngsters the ropes.

And true, it doesn’t have to be Bonino and Reimer. They aren’t the only pros’ pros in the league.

But if San Jose Sharks GM Mike Grier doesn’t get what he wants for either pending UFA? Or, if Grier moves one or the other, but has a chance to bring them back in free agency?

“If the Sharks wanted me back,” Reimer mused, “I’d definitely consider it.”

Ditto for Bonino.

“We’d be in a good spot if those two guys were here moving forward,” Quinn said.