Kevin Labanc went by all of it with the San Jose Sharks. The previous Barrie Colts junior star jumped proper into the NHL lineup from the OHL in 2016-17 after being chosen within the sixth spherical. Labanc would go on to play eight seasons with the Sharks and after signing an enormous four-year deal in 2020, the Sharks ahead fell from grace.

Labanc enters free company after posting two targets and 9 factors in 46 video games as he was making $4.72 million per season towards the cap. The New York native is not going to be making close to as a lot subsequent season and will must accept a league minimal contract. Here is three groups to keep watch over:

Minnesota Wild

The Wild are available in the market for a few depth gamers on a budget who can compete for roles at coaching camp and Labanc could possibly be the right reclamation challenge for Invoice Guerin. Labanc might want to signal a one-year show it contract, which is ideal for the Wild who’re pressed proper up towards the cap. Whereas he solely posted 9 factors final season, Labanc registered 33 the 12 months earlier than and has hit 50-plus in his profession.

Seattle Kraken

The Kraken want extra offense and will herald Labanc on a league minimal deal. It will likely be surprising to see him not signal a one-way contract, which is probably going why he hasn’t signed but up to now. The Kraken may supply Labanc an opportunity to battle for a fourth-line function and the chance to maneuver up the lineup ought to an harm happen.

New York Islanders

One other crew searching for secondary scoring, Labanc is from the realm and will go ‘dwelling’ to the Islanders. New York has simply over $1 million in cap area to work with and has solely three spots left for NHL contracts. Including Labanc, who’s looking for a change of surroundings could possibly be precisely what the Islanders want amongst their backside six.

Picture credit score: David Gonzales-USA TODAY Sports activities