Martin Jones played a major role in helping the San Jose Sharks reach the Stanley Cup Final in 2016, now he's viewed as a liability. Are the Sharks shopping for some insurance?

The Sharks are one of the NHL's best teams. However, they can't manage to hang on to first place in the Pacific Division. Why you ask? They give up way too many goals for their own good.

A team with the D-core of San Jose's caliber should not be near the bottom-third of the league is goals against. Much of the blame falls squarely on the shoulders of Jones and Aaron Dell. Simply put - they have not been good and Jones has been especially bad at times.

San Jose allowed 13 goals in its last three games, going 1-1-1. Jones gave up all but one of them. The 29-year-old is 28-11-5 overall with a 2.95 GAA and sub par .896 save percentage.

Let's put that into perspective.

Jones ranks second in wins by a goalie, but 60th in save percentage. See the dilemma?

He's struggled at various times throughout the season, he'll bounce back, then struggle again. That may be okay in the regular season, but it means a quick exit from the playoffs.

As smoke turns to fire and the trade winds pick up steam, it's starting to feel as though San Jose knows the current groups window to win is smal; and they don't want to let an opportunity to win the Stanley Cup -this season- slip away in storm of red lights.

The names of Jimmy Howard and Ryan Miller have been tossed around as possible options. Both bring experience and both could provide much needed insurance should Jones falter down the line.

I'm not in the rumor business, but they are fun to ponder. What I do know for sure is, this team is very good and has all the weapons to make another run. I'd hate to see it go to waste because they can't score six goals every other night in April, May and June. I say pull the trigger Mr. Wilson. Don't let that window slam shut with your hand halfway in it.

Stay tuned... the trade deadline is just days away.

***

The Sharks claimed Micheal Haley off waivers from the Panthers today and the reaction has been.... mixed.

Haley spent parts of three seasons in San Jose from 2014-17, collecting three goals and 187 PIMS. The 32-year-old had a career high 212 PIMS with Florida in 2017-18.

I guess the Sharks felt like they needed a slow, tough guy to combat all the speed in the NHL these day. That, or he was really like by him teammates in SJ and the Sharks want all the good mojo they can get this season. Leadership > speed and skill.

Thanks for reading,
Steve

Join the Discussion: » 14 Comments » Post New Comment

» Sharks offense in heating up; have they turned a corner?

» Radim Simek's return will help, but San Jose's issues run deep

» The Last Place Sharks; Should We Get Used To It?

» Evander Kane helping Sharks get back on track

» Patrick Marleau's big return masks Sharks woes