Sam Gagner is in a far different position entering free agency this summer as opposed to last summer. Then, Gagner was coming off of the worst season of his career and settled for a one-year, prove-it deal with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Now, Gagner is coming off of the best offensive season of his career, and will have no shortage of suitors. He’s a player that should interest the Sharks, no matter what happens with its own pending free agents.
The biggest area Gagner can help the Sharks is on the power play. He was a key component of Columbus’ 12th-ranked power play, and scored 18 (eight goals, ten assists) of his 50 points with an opponent in the penalty box.