Sharks Trade Candidates: Klim Kostin

The San Jose Sharks are an improved team, but not to the point where they will be buyers at the trade deadline. Because of this, San Jose will likely be active in moving players via trade, and one option is Klim Kostin.

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Kostin was productive during his 19-game stint with the Sharks last season. He scored five goals and five assists: the 25-year-old brought size, skill, and a terrific shot to a team lacking all three categories.

The additions of Macklin Celebrini, Will Smith, and Tyler Toffoli will likely push Kostin down the lineup. He was thrust into a top-six role when he arrived in San Jose. Despite showing success, head coach Ryan Warsofsky will likely give his top prospects a better opportunity to play with a solidified scorer in Toffoli.

Kostin will be an RFA with arbitration rights after this season. His current cap hit is $2 million. His low cap hit, mixed with his extra year of control, could make him a candidate to be moved at the deadline.

GM Mike Grier does have two key pending UFAs, Nico Sturm and Luke Kunin, but both players seem to be part of the team's future. Kunin was named an alternate captain last season and took a discount on his newest contract.

Related: Luke Kunin Believes Internal Competition Will Create Sharks Identity

Kostin has bounced around the NHL in recent seasons. He went from the Edmonton Oilers to the Detroit Red Wings last summer. He didn't play an entire season with Detroit before they traded him to the Sharks.

Kostin's role on the Sharks in 24-25 might be the most unknown question heading into training camp. He showed success, but did he do enough to warrant taking a top-six spot?

In THN's opinion, no. His $2 million cap hit is more than reasonable for Grier to be able to move. The former first-round pick will need a terrific training camp and early part of the season to maintain his spot in the lineup and on the Sharks roster.

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