The San Jose Sharks and general manager Mike Grier may not be done this offseason, as the team remains interested in adding to its forward group, per Sheng Peng of San Jose Hockey Now.
Grier was busy to start free agency, signing blueliners Dmitry Orlov, Nick Leddy, and John Klingberg, as well as forwards Philipp Kurashev and Adam Gaudette. However, adding another winger appears to be at the top of Grier’s priority list now.
In a video link provided by the team’s website, Grier said, “We’ll probably keep our eyes open. We could probably use a top-nine winger, if something like that comes available. If not, we’re more than happy to see how things play out this summer and see where the kids are when camp starts.”
Along those lines, Peng noted his belief that the Sharks at least kicked the tires on free agent wingers Brock Boeser and Nikolaj Ehlers. However, the remaining available wingers aren’t in the same tier, meaning Grier may need to explore the trade market if he’s intent on acquiring a forward of that caliber. Grier noted that with the Sharks’ current cap space ($23.9 million, per PuckPedia), the team is a top call for agents seeking deals for their free-agent clients or for other teams exploring trade options. Staying patient may be the best strategy for finding the depth scorer they need.
Grier also touched on what next season may hold for second-overall pick Michael Misa, just days after Director of Player Development Todd Marchant stated Misa would be given every opportunity to make the team. While Grier stopped short of making any bold predictions or claims, he did note that Misa’s return to the OHL’s Saginaw Spirit or the NCAA should not be viewed as a failure on Misa’s part.
“If that is the case, our development coaches will give them things to work on. And at the same time, you can always work on your leadership skills. Misa was a captain there as a young 18-year-old. And if he happens to go back there, there’s a good chance he’ll be captain (again),” he said.
When asked whether the team had a preference on where Misa would play next season if he doesn’t make the NHL roster, Grier said those discussions will take place in the coming weeks and added that Misa’s comfort level will be the biggest factor. For his part, Misa expressed his intention to play in San Jose next season immediately after being drafted with the second overall pick, saying, “That’s where my head is at.”