Sharks Face Decision on Forward Kiefer Sherwood Ahead of Trade Deadline
Sharks Evaluate Return on Investment
The San Jose Sharks are at a crossroads with forward Kiefer Sherwood, recently acquired from the Vancouver Canucks, as the March 6 NHL trade deadline looms. The team must decide whether to attempt a contract extension or potentially trade the 30-year-old.
Sherwood arrived in San Jose on January 19th in exchange for a pair of second-round draft picks (2026 and 2027) and defenseman Cole Clayton. The acquisition was initially viewed as adding an impact player for a playoff push, but circumstances have complicated the situation.
Injury and On-Ice Impact
Sherwood was hampered by an upper-body injury at the time of the trade and didn’t make his Sharks debut until after the early February Olympic break. He has played only two games for San Jose, coinciding with a five-game losing streak for the team, which has fallen five points behind the last wild card spot in the Western Conference.
Contract Negotiations and Market Value
Reports indicate that a potential contract extension for Sherwood could reach $30 million, a figure that has reportedly given the Sharks some sticker shock
. His current average annual value (AAV) is $1.5 million, and his playoff-style of play is expected to generate significant interest on the open market.
“The Sharks are open to the possibility of flipping Sherwood if they can’t gain him signed,”
Pierre LeBrun, The Athletic
Despite the potential for a trade, Sherwood has expressed a desire to remain with the Sharks.
“Obviously a little caught off guard,”
Kiefer Sherwood
Potential Trade Scenarios
General Manager Mike Grier could potentially recoup the second-round picks initially sent to Vancouver, or even a late first-round pick, in a trade involving Sherwood.
Upcoming Schedule Critical
The Sharks have a back-to-back weekend and two of their three games before the trade deadline approaching quickly. The outcomes of these games could determine whether the team ultimately decides to be buyers or sellers.
FAQ
What did the Sharks give up to acquire Kiefer Sherwood?
The Sharks traded a second-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, a second-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft, and defenseman Cole Clayton to the Vancouver Canucks for Kiefer Sherwood.
What is the estimated cost of extending Kiefer Sherwood’s contract?
Reports suggest a potential extension could cost around $30 million.
How many games has Sherwood played for the Sharks?
As of February 28, 2026, Sherwood has played two games for the San Jose Sharks.
The next week will be pivotal for the Sharks as they navigate the trade deadline and determine the future of Kiefer Sherwood. The decisions made will undoubtedly shape the team’s direction for the remainder of the season, and beyond.