The San Jose Sharks will let Mike Hoffman, Kevin Labanc, and Alexander Barabanov test the free-agent market this offseason.

The San Jose Sharks will let Mike Hoffman, Kevin Labanc, and Alexander Barabanov test the free-agent market this offseason.

During his exit interview, GM Mike Grier confirmed that he expects to let the veteran forwards walk.

"Yeah, that's fair [to say]," Grier said when asked about the three forwards. 

Barabanov and the Sharks had high hopes for a successful season, but injuries prevented that. The winger played just 46 games this season and had four goals and nine assists. His production was a significant drop from the 47 points in 68 games he had during the 2022-23 season. 

Trade rumors also surrounded Barabanov due to his contractual status. There was a report that he was part of a deal that sent him to the New York Rangers, but that trade was taken off the board because of the Tomas Hertl trade. 

Hoffman was part of the Erik Karlsson trade. The Montreal Canadiens became the third team in the deal and sent the veteran to San Jose as a cap dump. In 66 games this season, he had ten goals and 13 assists. 

His play has significantly declined, and the 34-year-old's time with the Sharks doesn't make sense past this season. The Sharks need room for their prospects on the roster.

Labanc and the Sharks were headed towards a somewhat ugly exit, but both sides handled the turmoil with class. Late in the season, Labanc's communication with head coach David Quinn was minimal, and Labanc rightfully voiced his frustration. 

The winger played 46 games this season and scored two goals and seven assists. His production has majorly dropped off since signing his 4-year, $18,900,000 contract in 2020.

Labanc and the Sharks tried to work on a trade together to give him a fresh start, but nothing came to fruition. 

The former fan favorite enjoyed his time in San Jose, but all signs point to his time in Teal having come to an end after eight seasons. 

Free agency starts July 1st. 

Make sure you bookmark THN's San Jose Sharks site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.

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