San Jose Sharks officially part ways with three players

General Manager Mike Grier confirmed on Saturday that the Sharks will be parting ways with at least three current players: forwards Kevin Labanc, Alexander Barabanov, and Mike Hoffman, whose contracts are set to expire at the end of the season.

Labanc's departure may come as a surprise, as he has spent his entire NHL career with the Sharks since being drafted in 2014. Barabanov, similarly, has been with the Sharks since the 2020-21 season after a brief stint with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Criticism has been directed at the Sharks for failing to trade Barabanov before the NHL trade deadline, adding to the pressure for changes within the team.

Hoffman's departure is less unexpected, as the 34-year-old goal scorer joined the Sharks only this season. With underwhelming performance and low point production, both parties seem ready to move on.

As the Sharks face a critical offseason, Grier will have the challenging task of revamping the team's roster to improve their fortunes in the upcoming seasons.