Former Sharks Forward Leaves NHL, Signs In Russia

Former San Jose Sharks forward Alexander Barabanov’s NHL career is over, as the winger has signed with AK Bars in the KHL.

Barabanov played five full seasons in the KHL with SKA St. Petersburg before he signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2020.

The winger was traded to San Jose during his first season and quickly found his offensive game after joining the Sharks.

During the 22-23 season, Barabanov had a career season with 15 goals and 32 assists in 68 games. Unfortunately for Barabanov, he wasn’t able to replicate the same success in 23-24 after dealing with COVID and injuries.

He only played in 46 games and had four goals and nine assists.

The UFA wanted to be traded at the deadline in March but the Sharks could not find a deal that GM Mike Grier felt was acceptable.

Reports came out that the Sharks and New York Rangers had a deal in place, but San Jose pivoted after they dealt Tomas Hertl to the Vegas Golden Knights

Related: REPORT: Sharks Had A Deal In Place To Send Barabanov To Rangers

The Russian returns to his home country on a two-year contract. His NHL career could be over after playing 206 games.

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