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Sharks re-sign Kevin Lebanc on the cheap

July 8, 2019, 11:19 PM ET [25 Comments]
Steve Palumbo
San Jose Sharks Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT
On Monday the San Jose Sharks announced they re-signed RFA Kebin Lebanc to a one-year deal. Per Cap Friendly, the deal is expected to be around $1 million. Yes, that's it - $1 million.

I was shocked when I saw the dollar figure and thought there had to be a mistake. Nope. It's real.

The 23-year-old is coming off an outstanding season in which he collected career highs in games (82), goals (17), assists (39) and points (56). He finished tied for sixth in team scoring with Evander Kane. Yes, the same Evander Kane and his lengthy contract with a $7 million AAV.

Since joining the Sharks for the 2015-16 season, Lebanc is averaging .54 points per game in 14:03 of ice time per night. His .68 PPG last season bested guys like Anders Lee, Patrick Laine, Alex Galchenyuk and Max Pacioretty - just to name a few.

In 20 playoff games, Labanc collected nine points (4g 5a) and one game-winning goal. He finished one point ahead of the aforementioned Kane. I think you get my point.

The Staten Island kid provides much-needed scoring depth and I believe we haven't even seen the best of him yet. Lebanc is quick, strong on the puck and dangerous with the man advantage. Eighteen of his 56 points came with the man advantage this season and his power play prowess was on full display in game 7 versus Vegas.

Lebanc played a part in all four Sharks goals on the major power play and became the first player in NHL history with four points in one period of a Game 7. Did you get all that? It was a mouthful.

I know the deal is for only one season, but it can still be viewed as a major victory for a battle-weary Doug Wilson. The unflappable Sharks general manager has been handcuffed by salary cap issues this offseason. As a result, we've already witnessed several key offensive pieces *cough* *Pavelski* *cough* sign elsewhere.

Locking up Labanc on the cheap is downright genius and a prime example of why Wilson and the Sharks continue to be successful year after year. Again, it was just $1 million! Good job Mr. Wilson.

To sum it all up - I like Lebanc and I like the bargain deal for the Sharks.

Thanks for reading,
Steve
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