San Jose Sharks: 3 players who could be traded before next season
By Matt Hawkins
San Jose Sharks. 120. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Defenseman. Brent Burns. 2. player
Over the last few years, Brent Burns has been one of the best offensive defensemen in the NHL. His career started off slow with the Minnesota Wild, but after a few years with San Jose, his career took off.
In nine seasons with the Sharks, Burns has suited up for 660 games and recorded 511 points (155 goals, 356 assists), plus/minus of +14, average ice-time of 23:30, 921 blocked shots, and 826 hits.
Before the season was paused, Burns was on his way to his sixth straight 50-point season, scoring 45 points (12 goals, 33 assists) in 70 games.
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Like Jones, Burns has a modified NTC where he submits a list of three teams that he’s willing to get traded to. So if the Sharks are looking to deal the 35-year-old, their choices are once again slim.
However, unlike Jones, teams are going to want to add Burns to their team. The Sharks could get a haul for Burns, one close to the one they sent to the Ottawa Senators for defenseman Erik Karlsson.
It may not be as much because of Burns’ age, $8 million AAV, and the fact he’s signed until he’s 40, but it’ll still be a lot if general manager Wilson plays his cards right.
Although he’s quite old now in regards to a hockey player, Burns is still capable of playing over 25 minutes a game and quarterbacking a top power play in the league.
With the team having another great offensive defenseman in Karlsson as well, it wouldn’t hurt the team too much to trade Burns.