San Jose Sharks Secure Long-Term Deal with Veteran Center Alex Wennberg, Indicating Shift in Team's Rebuilding Strategy
The San Jose Sharks have signed 31-year-old center Alex Wennberg to a three-year contract worth $18 million, keeping him on the roster instead of allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. The deal, which runs through the 2028-29 season, brings Wennberg's average annual salary to $6 million and makes him one of the team's highest-paid forwards.
The signing marks a significant change in direction for the Sharks, who had previously opted not to re-sign several pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs) in favor of trading them to contending teams for draft picks and prospects. Instead, the Sharks are now committed to retaining players like Wennberg, who has been a key contributor to their team.
Wennberg, who was due to become a free agent after this season, said he was "super excited" about re-signing with the Sharks, citing his love for the organization and its commitment to building a strong team. The deal also includes a no-trade clause through the 2027-28 season, which Wennberg said came together quickly.
The signing is significant because it suggests that the Sharks are now prioritizing long-term stability over short-term gains. While they may still be tempted to make moves before the March trade deadline, this move indicates a shift towards re-signing players who fit into their team's future plans.
The decision also provides relief for the Sharks, who had struggled to replace Wennberg on their second line. With his departure, the team would have been forced to find a replacement in a crowded free-agent market for centers. By keeping him, the Sharks may be able to give younger players like Michael Misa time to develop without being forced into key roles too quickly.
For now, the Sharks are just outside of playoff contention and know they have Wennberg as part of their push. He has been an important piece of the team's success, playing in all situations and impacting every aspect of the game. With this deal, the Sharks appear to be making a commitment to build a strong foundation for the future.
The San Jose Sharks have signed 31-year-old center Alex Wennberg to a three-year contract worth $18 million, keeping him on the roster instead of allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. The deal, which runs through the 2028-29 season, brings Wennberg's average annual salary to $6 million and makes him one of the team's highest-paid forwards.
The signing marks a significant change in direction for the Sharks, who had previously opted not to re-sign several pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs) in favor of trading them to contending teams for draft picks and prospects. Instead, the Sharks are now committed to retaining players like Wennberg, who has been a key contributor to their team.
Wennberg, who was due to become a free agent after this season, said he was "super excited" about re-signing with the Sharks, citing his love for the organization and its commitment to building a strong team. The deal also includes a no-trade clause through the 2027-28 season, which Wennberg said came together quickly.
The signing is significant because it suggests that the Sharks are now prioritizing long-term stability over short-term gains. While they may still be tempted to make moves before the March trade deadline, this move indicates a shift towards re-signing players who fit into their team's future plans.
The decision also provides relief for the Sharks, who had struggled to replace Wennberg on their second line. With his departure, the team would have been forced to find a replacement in a crowded free-agent market for centers. By keeping him, the Sharks may be able to give younger players like Michael Misa time to develop without being forced into key roles too quickly.
For now, the Sharks are just outside of playoff contention and know they have Wennberg as part of their push. He has been an important piece of the team's success, playing in all situations and impacting every aspect of the game. With this deal, the Sharks appear to be making a commitment to build a strong foundation for the future.
. still, if it helps stabilize the roster and gives younger players like michael misa time to develop, i'm cool with it 
. maybe this is the start of something good for the sharks?
. I mean, think about it, they've been going through this rebuild phase for years, and now they're deciding to keep players like Wennberg who have actually contributed to the team's success? It makes total sense. They can't just keep making trades for draft picks and prospects if they want to make a real push for the playoffs. I'm excited to see how this new strategy plays out! The fact that they're willing to give Wennberg a big contract is also a sign of confidence in their team, which is awesome 
. Now let's hope they can keep building on this momentum and actually make some noise in the league 
i mean its clear they're shifting their rebuild strategy from trading away vets 4 draft picks 2 holding on 2 guys like wennberg who r part of thir plan 
. They've been trying to rebuild for ages, but it looks like they're finally prioritizing stability over short-term gains 
. Wennberg's been a solid contributor, and it makes sense he'd want to stay in San Jose - he loves the org and it's a great place to play 
. Now we'll see if this changes the way they approach trades and free agency... I think they might try to make some moves before the deadline to bolster their roster 
. And you know what? I think it's a smart move 
. The Sharks aren't gonna be a playoff contender next season, so why bother making huge moves when they've got a solid piece like Wennberg on their roster? Let the young guns like Misa develop and grow while the team builds around them 
. This signing shows the Sharks are thinking long-term, not just about this season's wins 
Alex Wennberg is still a solid player, but I was expecting them to go after someone bigger of an impact on the ice 
On the other hand, it's great that they're prioritizing stability over quick fixes 
. But, would've been nice if they could've gotten more picks in return for someone like Wennberg