The San Jose Sharks announced the trade of Left Winger Anthony Duclair. The Sharks came into the trade deadline as the ultimate sellers. They have been at the bottom of the NHL standings for most all of the year. Teams had been calling about a few of their pieces as the deadline approached. Duclair is a great pickup for the Tampa Bay Lightning, who has really come into his own the last few years. In a case of keeping up with the Jones’, as the Lightning look to keep pace with the Florida Panthers after they added Vladimir Tarasenko. Tampa also acquired a seventh-round pick in 2025. Meanwhile, San Jose picked up Jack Thompson and a 2024 third-round pick.
We have acquired forward Anthony Duclair and a seventh-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft from the San Jose Sharks in exchange for defenseman Jack Thompson and Tampa Bay’s third-round selection in the 2024 NHL Draft. https://t.co/VIaA3QgMFX
— Tampa Bay Lightning (@TBLightning) March 8, 2024
The San Jose Sharks Trade Forward Anthony Duclair
The 28-year-old Duclair really emerged on the scene the past few years. You always knew the potential was there, as he scored 20 goals as a rookie. Moreover, in his first full season with the Ottawa Senators, in 66 games, he had 40 points. He then went on to a couple of successful seasons in Florida, including his career-best season. In 2021-22, he had highs in goals (31), assists (27), and points (58). His CF% Rel was also solid at 6.4, although not a career-high. The next year he missed time with injury, but luckily that meant he was rested come playoffs. He was solid on the Panthers run to the final, with 11 post-season points. That’s what will be expected of him this Spring.
What Does This Mean for the Sharks
After a poor showing in the 2023-24 for the San Jose Sharks, acquiring assets becomes the priority. They knew early their sights were set on the first overall pick, looking like Macklin Celebrini. With the assets the Sharks had in place, they weren’t sure of their positioning at the outset of the season. However, guys like Duclair and others gave them the option to be sellers. So, it made sense for them to take advantage of their advantage in the market.
What Does This Mean for the Lightning
Making a move on Duclair is a power move. He is a bit unassuming, but his play is an asset to your organization. For example, he skates well, is hard on the puck, and brings creativity to his offensive game. As we mentioned he does have a playoff resume. Moreover, he should fit in nicely with this forward group. This will be a positive addition to the club as they make their drive through the NHL’s Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Main photo: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports
