In Episode 201 of The Fin Factor, Paul and Aaron analyze a challenging period for the San Jose Sharks, specifically focusing on a 4-2 loss to the Nashville Predators and the upcoming trade deadline.
The Sharks’ Struggle: Analysis of the Nashville Game
The hosts detail several defensive breakdowns and missed opportunities during their lone game of the week:
- Defensive Errors: Aaron critiqued defenseman Kaelin Addison for abandoning his post in front of the net, which directly led to Nashville’s first goal by Sherwood.
- Special Teams: The Predators scored again on a power-play “snipe” by Filip Forsberg, aided by a screen from former Shark Gustav Nyquist.
- Bright Spots: Mikael Granlund scored a “beautiful” goal, continuing what the hosts described as a “great year” despite initial skepticism about his fit in the Erik Karlsson trade. Filip Zadina also scored his eighth goal of the season.
Trade Deadline Speculation: “Is This a Bad Stretch?”
The discussion transitions into whether the current roster’s struggles are a permanent state or a “bad stretch” that will be addressed by the trade deadline:
- Asset Management: The hosts emphasize that the team is now in “seller” mode. They discuss younger players like Zadina (24, RFA), noting that while he is coming into his own, he could be moved if the price is high enough.
- Veteran Value: Nico Sturm is highlighted as an “invaluable” leader and “captain material” due to his Stanley Cup experience. While there are trade talks, the hosts argue that keeping him might do “more harm than good” because of the leadership he provides to younger players.
- Disappointments: Players like Mike Hoffman and Anthony Duclair were cited as disappointments relative to expectations, though the hosts acknowledged that injuries to linemates likely impacted their production.
The “Tanking” and Future Outlook
- Goalie Market: There is speculation about moving Kaapo Kahkonen, with the hosts suggesting he could be a valuable “1B” goalie for a playoff-bound team.
- Injury Impact: The team’s struggles are compounded by significant injuries to veteran leaders Tomas Hertl and Logan Couture, leaving the roster “depleted”.
- The Plan: Despite the “painful” stretch, the hosts look forward to seeing prospects like Will Smith eventually join the fold. For the immediate future, Aaron jokingly suggests the team should “shut everyone down… and tank” to secure better draft odds.
