The San Jose Sharks are managing their roster for the upcoming NHL trade deadline by holding Luke Kunin, their versatile forward, out of the lineup for their game against the Colorado Avalanche on March 6, 2025. This strategic decision is not due to injury, but rather for trade-related reasons, indicating the Sharks may be preparing to finalize Kunin's transfer to another team.
Kunin, who stands at six feet tall and weighs 197 pounds, has played 63 games this season, registering 11 goals and 7 assists for a total of 18 points. Known for his physical style of play, he has also recorded 163 hits during this season, showcasing his two-way game. The Sharks are reportedly seeking at least a second-round pick for Kunin, highlighting his value as he approaches unrestricted free agency (UFA) with a cap hit of $2.75 million.
Trade predictions point particularly to the Toronto Maple Leafs, who have expressed interest in acquiring Kunin to bolster their lineup with his ability to play multiple positions, including both center and wing. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman mentioned on his podcast, "I could see Kunin being on Toronto's radar," emphasizing how his versatility could fit with the current roster. Kunin, being regarded as one of the Sharks' key players, could fill important roles, including contributing on the penalty kill and winning pivotal faceoffs.
Kunin's tenure with the Sharks has lasted since he was acquired from the Nashville Predators before the 2022-23 season. He has since scored 27 goals and provided 22 assists over the course of 171 games with the franchise. His current contract was signed last offseason for one year, amounting to $2.75 million, and with the looming deadline, the Sharks are eager to take advantage of their profitable assets.
With the trade deadline fast approaching—scheduled for March 7 at 3 PM Eastern Time—the Sharks have already begun moving other players such as goalie Vitek Vanecek and forward Nico Sturm, indicating they prioritize building for the future. Vanecek was traded to the Florida Panthers shortly before Kunin’s scratch from the lineup, and the Sharks will need to continue reshaping their team composition before the deadline passes.
Khlo Kovalenko has also been activated off injured reserve and looks to play against the Avalanche, adding more depth to the lineup as the Sharks prepare to manage their roster strategically amid trade discussions. Kunin has expressed awareness of the situation; he stated last month, "I’m focused on today. I’m focused on getting improved during practice. Whatever tomorrow brings, we’ll deal with it then." His professionalism reflects the uncertainty many players face during this tumultuous period.
Overall, this strategy involving Kunin signifies the Sharks’ intent to not just offload players, but also to maximize returns as they position themselves for years to come, potentially turning Kunin's departure from the squad to their benefit in the form of valuable draft picks.
With other teams like the Calgary Flames also lurking as potential candidates to acquire Kunin due to his reliable playing style, it is clear the Sharks are making calculated decisions as they approach the deadline. The focus now shifts to the potential outcomes for Kunin as the clock ticks down toward the final trading window.
The impending decisions surrounding Luke Kunin remain fluid, reflecting the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of the NHL trade market. Only time will tell how this situation develops, but Kunin’s ability and experience make him one of the more intriguing figures as the trade deadline looms.