In Episode 202 of The Fin Factor, Paul and Aaron recap a challenging four-game week for the San Jose Sharks, where the team managed to pick up only a single point. The discussion centers on the team’s defensive struggles, upcoming trade deadline speculation, and a notable performance by young goaltender Magnus Chrona.
Magnus Chrona’s Strong Performance
Young goaltender Magnus Chrona received significant praise for his performance during a 3-2 shootout loss to the Dallas Stars.
- Second Career Start: This game marked Chrona’s second career NHL start, and the hosts noted he looked “pretty solid” and made several “acrobatic saves”.
- Physical Presence: Standing at least 6’4″ or 6’5″, Chrona was described as a “monster in net” who uses his size effectively while remaining surprisingly quick and mobile.
- Managing Expectations: Despite his strong showing, the hosts cautioned against immediate “NHL starter” expectations, noting that he still needs to prove himself over a longer “grind” of games.
- Confidence Boost: After previously struggling in relief appearances, this game was seen as a vital confidence builder for the young goalie.
Trade Deadline Week Speculation
With the trade deadline fast approaching, the hosts analyzed which players might be on the move and the general state of the market.
- Anthony Duclair: Duclair scored two goals against the Ducks, which the hosts joked was done just to “shut them up” after they criticized his hustle in previous episodes. They believe he is a strong candidate to be moved to a playoff team.
- Kevin LeBanc: LeBanc was a healthy scratch during the week, leading to a discussion about his declining role and the potential for a “change of scenery”. However, his $4.7 million cap hit was cited as a major obstacle for any interested team.
- Mikael Granlund & Mario Ferraro: The hosts argued that while there is interest in these players, the Sharks don’t have to move them because they are under contract and provide invaluable veteran leadership for the team’s youth.
- Cap Space as an Asset: Aaron suggested that Mike Greer’s “big splash” might not be a traditional player trade, but rather using the team’s remaining cap space and retention slots to facilitate a three-team trade and acquire draft picks or prospects.
Other Key Highlights
- Team Struggles: The week began with a demoralizing 7-2 loss to the New Jersey Devils, a game characterized by “sloppy play” and “hero hockey” mistakes that veteran Nico Sturm urged the team to avoid through “patience”.
- Goaltending Injuries: McKenzie Blackwood’s injury forced Kaapo Kahkonen into a difficult relief situation against the Devils, which may have inadvertently hurt Kahkonen’s trade stock.
- Justin Bailey: The hosts expressed strong approval of Justin Bailey’s high-energy play and forechecking, suggesting he has earned a contract extension even if he isn’t a primary goal scorer.
