Sharks Finally Give Kevin Labanc Opportunity; Possible Showcase Game Against Blue Jackets

Kevin Labanc will enter the San Jose Sharks lineup for the first time in seven games when the Sharks take on the Columbus Blue Jackets tonight.

Kevin Labanc will enter the San Jose Sharks lineup for the first time in seven games when the Sharks take on the Columbus Blue Jackets tonight.

Labanc has worked hard in practice, but Sharks head coach David Quinn has continually scratched Labanc, citing that he felt the Sharks had 12 better forwards to play.

Earlier this week, Labanc's agent confirmed to THN that the Sharks and Labanc are working together to find a fresh start for the disgruntled winger.

"I echo what Kevin said yesterday about finding a fresh start. We are working with the team to find him a new opportunity in the NHL either by the trade deadline or the off-season," Labanc's agent, Mike Curran, told THN on Wednesday. "Regardless of the outcome, I know he will continue to work as hard as he can to get back in the lineup and give the Sharks his best effort."

Quinn wants a consistent effort from Labanc tonight. 

"Just a frickin honest effort for 60 minutes," Quinn said this morning. "Possess the puck and play a good game."

During the morning skate, Labanc was on a line with Nico Sturm and Filip Zadina. 

Labanc is taking the place of Jacob MacDonald in the lineup.

"Listen, it's been a long time. I want to get him back in," Quinn said as to why he is putting Labanc in. 

Labanc has an opportunity to showcase his talent to the rest of the NHL, as there will likely be a lot of scouts at tonight's game. During trade deadline season, Scouts from almost every team attend many games across the country. When the Sharks played the Calgary Flames on Thursday, there were 13 teams who had scouts in attendance.

Labanc has a chance to make a good impression for the Sharks to stay in the lineup and whatever teams have scouts at tonight's game.

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