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Wilson continues to fill out his
roster
McLaren also receives contract
extention
8/12/05 - by Mike Lee
The Sharks continue to work through their summer to do list of
resigning free agents, but General Manager Doug Wilson dedicated some time on
defenseman Kyle McLaren's current contract on Thursday, slapping on an
additional three years. The new deal will keep McLaren in teal through the
2008-09 season. Right wing Niko Dimitrakos was also re-signed to a two year
deal.
By the Sharks most physical defenseman, McLaren's punishing style of play will
ensure some balance to a blue line consisting of Brad Stuart, Scott Hannan, Jim
Fahey, Tom Preissing, Christian Ehrhoff and Rob Davison.
San Jose's blueliners are all under contract, although the departure of senior
statesman Mike Rathje creates a hole that may still be filled with a free agent
acquisition or a prospect call up assuming someone shines in training camp come
September.
The Sharks have a stable of young defenseman in Cleveland, but nobody stands
out as a lock to make the jump to the NHL this season. Cleveland's lackluster
2004-05 season exposed serious holes in the prospect pool and two members of
that roster Fahey & Ehrhoff) are already slated to see regular ice time in
San Jose this season.
Garrett Stafford and Doug Murray would be the most logical choices for possible
promotions. Both are disciples of collegiate programs, although Stafford has
one more year of AHL experience under his belt.
Dimitrakos signing leaves only Patrick Marleau, Scott Parker, Brad Stuart, and
Marco Sturm unsigned. Forward Alexander Korolyuk will have to go through
arbitration should he decide to return to the NHL. Several unconfirmed reports
indicate that the winger may remain in his native Russia and play for bigger
dollars.
One of the advantages of filing for arbitration (which is a new right for clubs
this year), Korolyuk would remain property of the Sharks should he return to
North America, and would be bound contractually to the deal the arbitrator
rules on as part of the arbitration proceedings.
UYA Watch
Eric Lindros finally got his wish to play in Ontario and will join the Toronto
Maple Leafs this season. Lindros was inked to a one-year deal worth $1.55
million.
The Boston Bruins signed Joe Thornton to a three year deal, worth $20 million.
The signing is of special interest to Wilson, because he's still trying to
re-sign restricted free agent forward Patrick Marleau, and the Thornton numbers
will undoubtedly influence was Marleau asks for.
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