The San Jose Sharks are very clearly sellers at the trade deadline this season and have a number of assets they would benefit in the long run from moving. The player we are going to get into today is Alexander Barabanov as he is an upcoming UFA after this season and is on a cheap contract.
For the most part, it is tough to judge many of the players on the Sharks by their production this season alone. Barabanov is the perfect example of this. He has not only been without his regular centerman for this entire season (Logan Couture), he is on the second-worst team in the league who has struggled to score. While the skilled winger has recorded 28 goals and 93 points since being traded to the Sharks over 147 games before this season, his numbers are unimpressive in 2023-24.
Barabanov has had Couture as his centerman since arriving in San Jose and has put up these numbers with a cap hit of just $2.5 million AAV. This season he only has three goals and nine points in 31 games, but he has been forced to find chemistry elsewhere, is playing less, and is playing lower in the lineup. David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period reported that the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Winnipeg Jets have been linked to Barabanov this season.
How Barabanov Could Help the Leafs and Jets
Toronto Maple Leafs
The Maple Leafs aren’t proving that the general manager should go out and package some of the future to make a couple big moves this season and help them get better. There is still time to prove him wrong, but as of right now, the team should stand fairly pat or make smaller moves that won’t hurt them later on. The market for wingers won’t be as costly as the market for centers this season, so Barabanov, being an underrated winger, could be a steal for a mid-round pick this season.
From the Maple Leafs’ perspective, they can’t justify using their first unless it is someone under contract past this season. If they want a little change and upgrade up front, Barabanov could be that player and his cap hit is low. The Maple Leafs wouldn’t have to ask for any cap retention, and it therefore wouldn’t cost as much. If Barabanov could play on the wing in the top-six to mix things up in Toronto, or even on the third line, it could pay off for both sides.
Winnipeg Jets
The Jets have already made a move for Sean Monahan, but that doesn’t mean they are done. They are legitimate contenders this season, especially with how well the team plays together and how well the goaltending has been. Their first round pick has already been used, but Barabanov is not going to cost a first rounder this season.
Related: Second Zadorov Trade Could Be Next for Canucks
While goaltending and defense don’t need an upgrade, if the Jets were going to make another addition, it would be for depth at forward. Their lines are strong, but injuries could play a part. Some players on the team don’t have the best luck when it comes to staying healthy. If the price isn’t too high, it would definitely be worth it for the Jets this season.
