The San Jose Sharks announced on Wednesday that they have acquired longtime veteran winger Vladislav Namestnikov from the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for Michael Eyssimont. Namestnikov will hit the open market in July and hasn’t been able to find his scoring touch. The Russian forward has played for six different NHL teams since the 2019-20 season.
#SJSharks acquire Vladislav Namestnikov from @TBLightning in exchange for Mikey Eyssimont.
— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) March 2, 2023
Tampa Makes Vladislav Namestnikov Trade to San Jose
Tampa Bay sent five draft choices to the Nashville Predators in exchange for the physical Tanner Jeannot. This left the Lightning to subtract one forward from the lineup. The franchise had no interest in separating a fourth line of Pat Maroon, Pierre-Edouard Bellemare, and Corey Perry. Ross Colton has stapled himself as an electric middle-six player and Nick Paul signed a seven-year contract extension over the summer.
Namestnikov was the odd man out in this case. He’s solidified himself as a defensive minded bottom-six forward with a strong ability to break the puck out. Unfortunately, Vladislav hasn’t been able to replicate his 20 goals in 62 games during the 2017-18 season. He failed to capitalize offensively when traded to the New York Rangers
Eyssimont will move on to his third franchise this season. He started the 2022-23 campaign as a member of the Winnipeg Jets. Moreover, the Sharks claimed Eyssimont off waivers. During his 20 game stint, Eyssimont recorded three goals and five assists with San Jose.
Impact of the Vladislav Namestnikov Trade
Namestnikov likely won’t find his 20-goal pace playing with the Sharks. Despite his offensive woes, Namestnikov secured a role for himself and committed to it. Vladislav may very well excel with increased opportunities in San Jose. Remember, he’s playing for pay in free agency. Term with the Sharks doesn’t fit their timeline.
The Lightning have a history with underdogs like Eyssimont. He won’t be a regular in the lineup, however, he may have opportunity with Tampa’s fourth line nearing retirement. Eyssimont is tough and can drop the gloves on any given night.
Main photo by: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
