San Jose Barracuda
Walman? Zetterlund?!? Our Sharks’ Trade Deadline Reaction

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What did we think of the San Jose Sharks’ Trade Deadline?
No doubt, GM Mike Grier dropped some bombs, what did we think of all the Sharks’ moves, like the surprising Jake Walman and Fabian Zetterlund trades?
We discuss all the possible reasons behind the Jake Walman deal and why Grier might have sold a player at the peak of his value. (4:08)
The Zetterlund trade to the Ottawa Senators caused quite an outpouring of emotion from the San Jose Sharks’ fanbase. How do we see the value, both on and off the ice, that was traded for Zetterlund? Keegan has been watching a lot of Zack Ostapchuk and likes what he sees…but he’s also sad to lose fan favorite Zetterlund. Also, what does Sheng think that the contract asks were from Zetterlund and the Sharks? (18:35)
We cover all the other trades briefly, including a Sheng favorite that got traded. Hint: It’s not Luke Kunin! (46:05)
Finally, we give our Trade Deadline grades for the San Jose Sharks. (1:04:43)
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Sharks ran on adrenaline for about 15 minutes and from that point forward, a modest Isles team without Barzal or Nelson was just better. Not sure what to say. Why Warsofsky thinks his goalie can play 4 games in 6 nights with multiple time changes — kind of beyond me. Just a difficult time in a difficult situation.The extra day off will hopefully help the Sharks get a chance to breathe. Also looked at the opening night roster. Just 9 players played tonight and in the opener — 7 forwards, 2 d-men. Continuity isn’t going to be high during a… Read more »
Because Georgiev has done it in the past, is my theory.
Not saying that’s a good reason but I think Georgiev is someone who does better playing more games. Definitely not his best but the D in front was also pretty horrendous.
Couple things… I was hoping to see the team buying guys too, but if it’s an extreme seller’s market, better to wait. I think right now the grade is incomplete until we see how the offseason goes, and maybe even the next two offseasons. If they take the picks and spin gold and land a couple impact free agents who fill major holes, then a C+ grade should be reevaluated. But for now, I think it’s reasonable because we just have no idea about Ostapchuk or what they’ll do with the picks.
Initial reactions appear to be quite a bit like the Karlsson, Hertl, and Meier trades. Mixed at best, but generally seem negative toward what came back for Zetterlund. As we put the Karl, Timo, and Hertl trades further in the rear view mirror though, they didn’t turn out as bad as many believed. As you stated we’ll all have to wait a year or two and see what Grier does with the picks, and see if Ostapchuk can turn into a reliable bottom 3rd line C. Not going to lie though, seeing the roster get gutted as it did in… Read more »
The prices at the deadline for difference makers with term is almost always exorbitant. Better shopping at the draft as far as trades.
The Athletic gave MG an A- (only 6 teams got A/A-) Looks like they might have been including MacKenzie, Mikael, Cody etc…. They loved his asset management. And they also remove any value of locker room vibes…..
The Walman move also counted for a lot. Red Wings paid to get rid of Walman then Grier flips him for a first rounder. Getting anything for expiring UFA’s is good. I think the lingering question mark will be Zetterlund. If he evolves into a 30 goal guy in the next couple of years, I think that deal will age badly even if Ostpachuk evolves into a solid bottom six (which he is projected to be.) We’ll also have to see what Ottawa signs him to.
I’m not seeing 30 goals in his future… I think he’s a tweener… Not offensive enough to be top 6 on a Cup team and not physical enough to be a championship 3rd liner.
I’m still sad, but I think it’s an ok move and worth the risk. Zetterlund didn’t scare anyone, but Ostapchuk might
Zetts isn’t a 30 goal guy and likely doesn’t reach more than 25 again considering where he’s going to play in the Sens line up. the scouting report is that Osty projects to be a physical 3rd line center if he reaches his projection.
I saw an article citing some underlying numbers that suggest you’re right about Zetterlund’s ceiling. On the other hand, NHL players are peaking later than ever in their careers.
Anyway, it’s done now. We’ll see. A 4th-for-2nd pick swap is not terrible either. 4th round picks are hail marys, but you can find some decent NHL players in the 2nd and occasional hidden gems.