According to multiple reports, including a verification that came about an hour later from the organization, the San Sharks and forward Tomas Hertl have apparently come to terms on an extension that will keep the pending UFA in San Jose for the next eight seasons. The deal is reportedly worth $8 million per season.
Related: Jets Shopping Stastny and Copp in Trade, Not Offering Extensions
Ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline on Monday, there was a lot of talk that the Sharks were diligently working to keep Hertl in San Jose to avoid having to make a crucial decision about trading him and getting a rental versus letting him walk for nothing during the summer. Reactions to the deal are mixed, many saying they like Hertl as a player, but that the eight-year deal is a big risk by the Sharks.
In the end, $8 million times eight years was the cost of keeping a number one center on the roster and having a star who is well-rounded offensively but also has a history of strong defensive play. Some are making the argument that this isn’t actually an overpayment, just a questionable decision by San Jose who is trending downward and likely getting set for a rebuild.
Hertl Wanted to Stick With the Sharks
For Hertl, he likely had no desire to leave San Jose. The Sharks are the only team he’s known over his 562-game NHL career. He’s been a big part of their offense and is one of the few stars still left on the team since they were a regular Stanley Cup contender.
His best season came in 2018-19 when he scored 35 goals and notched 74 points. He’s on pace for 66 points in an 82-game schedule this season.
Next: Panthers Trading Frank Vatrano to New York Rangers
Pingback: Oilers and Blackhawks Revisiting Trade Talks Regarding Dominik Kubalik