Sharks Forward Expecting to be Traded

8 hours ago  /  NHL Trade Rumors  /  Read Time: 59 seconds

 It's usually the way of the NHL trade deadline: pending unrestricted free agents who aren't close to signing an extension are prime trade fodder for rival teams. In the case of San Jose Sharks center Nico Sturm, he fully expects to be dealt if no extension is forthcoming—and there's none in sight right now.Realistically, as long as nothing's done, I might probably expect to get moved. If there's no contract extension, that's just the reality of life in the NHL.Sturm said he's looking for a three to four-year contract, but there have been no meaningful discussions with Sharks GM Mike Grier. The 6'3" German center is one of the NHL's top faceoff men, and is on an expiring cap hit of $2 million. He would be affordable for many teams looking for a solid fourth-line center who can win some crucial faceoffs when needed. He leads the entire NHL in faceoff percentage at 63.2% (minimum 100 draws). However, his ice time is down nearly five minutes a game this season, from an average of 14:40 a night last year to just 9:49 in his 39 games. He has five goals and five assists for 10 points. And while his PK time has been reduced quite a bit this season, he's still able to perform when given a chance:SWEET feed from William Eklund, and an even sweeter finish from Nico Sturm shorthanded 😮‍💨 pic.twitter.com/ko5ohu1oAW— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) January 15, 2025In addition to his size, his quality work in the faceoff dot and his potential to add a bit of scoring if given the ice time (14 goals two years ago), Sturm also has a Stanley Cup ring from 2022 with the Colorado Avalanche. He'd be a cheap, attractive piece for a contender looking for 4th line depth. Photo: © Robert Edwards-Imagn Images ...

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