Adam Proteau: Sharks' early exit could set stage for major makeover in San Jose The San Jose Sharks' first-round loss to the Edmonton Oilers wasn't a total condemnation of the franchise, which had major injuries to deal with. However, the aging core of the Sharks – combined with the unrestricted free agency of two key stars – could mean we finally see significant change come to one of the NHL's most stable, patient organizations.

As a long time fan of both players, I really hope the Sharks re-sign both Thornton and Marleau. I think the decision to bring back either or both will likely be made based on their demands. They're either going to want too much and price themselves out, or they'll take a lot less with 1 or 2 year deals).

I don't think the Sharks have anyone internally who can replace either players production (at least not with any sort of certainty).

Hertl and Donskoi have both shown flashes but nothing to suggest that they can fill those voids (and both so far have been anything but durable), Teirney's ceiling is likely that of a decent 3rd line center. The farm has some promising prospects, but none are sure things.

Tough injuries this year. Hopefully they don't do anything too crazy with the mediocre UFA pool this summer.

Sharks had a great season but need to move on from the franchise cornerstones of Thorton & Marleau, youth and speed is the new NHL