Like several other pending unrestricted free agents around the NHL, San Jose Sharks center Nico Sturm figures he’ll be moved to another team before the NHL trade deadline in March if he doesn’t receive a contract extension offer.

The San Jose Sharks sit 31st in the league with a 14-26-6 record, making them a prime contender for top-end draft selection. With the Sharks in the midst of a rebuild, selling the team to gather draft assets is a priority.

Welcome back to NHL Predictions! Today, like every day, Last Word on Hockey looks at the games happening and gives our predictions for each. We’ll also break down head-to-head matchups and other factors that may play in.

Watch the Game Highlights from New York Islanders vs. San Jose Sharks, 01/18/2025