The San Jose Sharks are making it clear: they're not sitting back in the Western Conference playoff race. After bringing in forward Kiefer Sherwood from the Vancouver Canucks, the Sharks are reportedly eyeing another addition - this time on the blue line.
According to reports, San Jose has expressed interest in New York Rangers defenseman Braden Schneider. And honestly, that’s a name that makes a lot of sense for where this Sharks team is headed.
Schneider, just 24 years old, is the kind of player who fits the mold of a team trying to build something sustainable. He’s a former first-round pick with a solid defensive foundation, and while his offensive numbers this season - two goals and eight assists through 51 games - don’t jump off the page, his value goes beyond the stat sheet. He plays a steady, physical game, and he’s shown flashes of being more than just a stay-at-home defender.
For the Sharks, who are looking to blend youth with experience as they push for playoff positioning, Schneider could be a strong addition to their top-four rotation. He brings size, mobility, and a right-handed shot - all valuable assets for a team trying to shore up its defensive core.
He'd also give San Jose another reliable option on the penalty kill, an area where depth and discipline can make all the difference in the stretch run. And with the Rangers openly navigating a bit of a retool under president and GM Chris Drury, Schneider’s name has started to surface more frequently in trade talks.
The Sharks’ interest signals a front office that sees opportunity in the current market - and isn’t afraid to be proactive. Whether or not a deal gets done, it’s clear San Jose is looking to add pieces that not only help now but could be part of the long-term puzzle.
Schneider could be one of those pieces.