Statements
The San Jose Sharks made strategic moves on Wednesday, bolstering their forward depth to support an impending youth movement. The Sharks claimed Barclay Goodrow off waivers from the New York Rangers and traded with the Dallas Stars to acquire Ty Dellandrea. These acquisitions aim to ease the transition for the projected No. 1 overall pick in this year's draft, Macklin Celebrini, and Will Smith, picked fourth overall last year.
Experience Returns: The Barclay Goodrow Factor
Goodrow's return to San Jose provides not only depth but also invaluable playoff experience. General Manager Mike Grier had been actively seeking veteran forwards to guide the younger players. Goodrow previously spent six seasons with the Sharks, scoring 26 goals and notching 45 assists. His journey has included successful stints with the Tampa Bay Lightning and the New York Rangers. He has been a key component in several deep playoff runs.
In 2019, Goodrow scored an iconic overtime goal in Game 7 of the first round against Vegas, helping San Jose reach the Western Conference Finals. He further contributed to Tampa Bay's back-to-back Stanley Cup-winning teams in 2020 and 2021. More recently, he aided the Rangers' journey to the Eastern Conference Finals over the last two years. Since debuting in the NHL in 2014, the Toronto native has amassed 169 points in 572 regular-season games and added 24 more points in 97 playoff games.
Claiming Goodrow has financial implications for the Rangers as it saves $3.6 million against the salary cap each of the next three seasons. Taking on Goodrow's contract from the Rangers was a calculated risk by the Sharks, but one they deemed necessary for the mentorship and stability he brings.
Adding Depth: Ty Dellandrea's Role
The addition of Ty Dellandrea adds another layer of depth to the Sharks. Dellandrea played 42 games for the Stars this season, contributing two goals and seven assists. He ranked sixth among forwards on his team with 63 hits and was fifth in penalty kill time among Stars forwards. Despite being picked 13th overall by Dallas in 2018, Dellandrea has not yet translated his draft potential into significant offensive numbers. He has registered 14 goals and 28 assists in 151 career NHL games. He has recorded four goals in 24 career playoff games.
His restricted free agent status in July will give the Sharks his arbitration rights. During the recent playoffs, he scored one goal in six games for Dallas. The Sharks hope Dellandrea's physicality and penalty-killing abilities will offer a well-rounded support system for integrating younger talent into their lineup.
Strategic Foresight: Balancing Veterans and Youth
The San Jose Sharks' recent acquisitions of Goodrow and Dellandrea are moves underscored by strategic foresight. General Manager Mike Grier's attention to blending seasoned veterans with emerging talent marks an effort to create a balanced and competitive team. The intent is to provide a foundation of experience to help nurture young prospects like Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith. These calculated roster adjustments signal a commitment to both immediate improvement and sustainable future success.
Brandon Magnus from NHLI via Getty Images commented on Goodrow’s contribution during his first stint with the Sharks, noting, "Barclay Goodrow scored 26 goals and notched 45 assists in six seasons with the San Jose Sharks."
Conclusion
The Sharks are clearly focused on the future while making tactical decisions that address their current needs. By incorporating experienced players such as Goodrow and rising talents like Dellandrea, they are preparing the team to be competitive and resilient. As they set the stage for their emerging stars, they ensure that the wisdom and skill of seasoned players will anchor the new generation. The moves speak volumes about the organization’s strategic depth and vision, promising exciting times ahead for the team and its fanbase. This synergy between grit and potential could well mark the dawn of a new era for the San Jose Sharks.