It's no secret that Kevin Labanc's San Jose Sharks career is possibly nearing an end, and the forward wants to perform well in front of the home fans one last time.

It's no secret that Kevin Labanc's San Jose Sharks career is possibly nearing an end, and the forward wants to perform well in front of the home fans one last time.

While anything can change, and it is no guarantee that Labanc will be gone after the season, there have been many indications that both he and the team want to move on. Labanc will be an unrestricted free agent after the season ends. 

Earlier this season, THN reported that Labanc and the Sharks were working together on a trade, but that never materialized. 

After not getting moved at the trade deadline, Labanc revealed to the media that there had been a lack of communication between him and Sharks head coach David Quinn. 

Through all the season's turmoil, Labanc has remained positive and worked hard in practice and the games he plays. Tonight, Labanc returns to the lineup for the first time in nine days. 

Tonight is the Sharks' final home game of the season, and Labanc recognizes that the fans have been supportive throughout his eight seasons in the NHL.

"They're loyal. They're passionate. It's a hockey town here," Labanc said. "[I] really appreciate them coming and supporting us. [They] bring it every single day and night. I really appreciate that, and they're great fans."

Labanc has just two goals and seven assists in 45 games this season. His goal tonight was to take the game as normal and give his all. He relished getting back into the lineup for a home game. 

"Just means a lot. I have been here for eight years, so [I'm] gonna lay it out there and do everything that I can and give the fans a good show," Labanc said. 

When asked about his favorite memory of playing for the Sharks, other than the game-seven comeback, he couldn't pick just one.

"First game. First couple of goals. Overtime goals," Labanc said. "I mean, there's been a lot of great games. Playing with Joe Thornton, Joe Pavelski, and Patrick Marleau. "I mean, there's a whole archive I think that I have to scroll through."

He referenced an overtime goal against the Edmonton Oilers from 2016 that stood out to him. 

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gcy1N6r4vyA[/embed]

"I think one of my first years there was an overtime goal against Edmonton. That felt pretty good," Labanc smiled. 

Labanc is playing in his 478th career game with the San Jose Sharks tonight, and Quinn is telling the media he wants to ensure the entire roster gets into a game before the end of the season. This could be Labanc's final game of the season and possibly his Sharks career. 

"It's been a lot of fun playing over here and just the community as well. Everybody's so in touch with each other, and it's home," Labanc smiled.

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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