According to The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta, San Jose Sharks winger Alexander Barabanov could be on the move.

Per The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta, San Jose Sharks winger Alexander Barabanov could be on the move at the trade deadline.

Sharks fans have welcomed the Russian forward to San Jose as one of their own. He quickly has become a fan favorite. Barabanov just had his second child over the summer and wants to stay in the Bay Area.

"Of course, I want to stay here. My two babies were born here. I like the group here," Barabanov said during training camp. "But it's a business. We'll see what happens."

Barabanov is a UFA at season's end and has a cap hit of $2.5 million. His offensive production will make him an attractive trade acquisition. 

Pagnotta has said if an extension can't be met before the trade deadline, Barabanov will be a perfect addition to any contending team.  

"I liked his season last year. He and I talked about that there's another level for him to get to. I think this guy is just scratching the surface," Sharks head coach David Quinn said. "He's a really smart player. He’s competitive. He’s spent a lot of time improving his shot. He looks a little bit quicker right now."

Although the team is high on him, Barabanov's contract situation and the team's state could be the deciding factor in his future with San Jose. 

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