San Jose Sharks/2020-2021
Heading into last year this team was lacking a few things that every true contender needs. Secondary scoring from the forwards group. Trusted 3rd line and PK players with speed. A secondary puck moving dman was also lacking. But most of all this Team had no EX or LD.
Add:
D.Brown
A.Cogliano
A.Steen
M.Green
The Sharks wanted another D in UFA but missed out.
Those 4 pieces aren’t headliners but will play a key role in The Sharks success or failure. Those additions fill out the 3rd line and PK assignments. The EX and LD they all bring is what this team was lacking and they bring a lot of it.
The Sharks are lucky in having the luxury of playing Pastrnak and Matthews(both 99SC) on separate lines. That should give the secondary scoring that’s been nonexistent a boost, especially with young phenom C.Makar on the back end this year.
Forwards:
The top 2 lines are as good as any in the league. Both lines have top end speed and can score at will. Third line is a decent line with speed and experience,shouldn’t be a liability.
On Defense:
Two all around SUPERSTAR dMen with a decent supporting cast. They should be able to hold their own till cap bump.
Goaler:
I Dunno(Goalies Right) He’s a 76 with high EX and LD. Nothing else to say.
Special Teams:
PK looks good
And……..
That PP(Matthews,Pastrnak, Marner,Pietrangelo, Makar)Jesus Man! If that PP isn’t 1st in the league at years end something is Wrong!!!
I spoke with Head office and GM Martin expects a lot out of this group. He wouldn’t give predictions or what his expectations are but he did speak about the “kids” and how they’re not kids anymore.
“We’ve added a few veterans with a boat load of experience and can still play the game at a high level. All great character Team guy’s too. With these additions our young skilled guys can now concentrate on doing what they do best. With that said there’s higher expectations i put on these guys,their not kids anymore,recess is over and it’s time to man the fuk up!”
Martin went on to tell me it looks like the team is set till cap bump(bearing injury)unless he can make upgrades to his D.
I think this Team has a legit shot at #1 seed in The West for the first time during Martins short time with the team. The additions he’s made this summer to form around his core players seems to be just what they needed. If Martin can add a couple more smart pieces at the bump and make a run he’s genius. As for any success it’s all about health. If this Team can stay healthy they are a legit contender to come out of the west.