While it always seemed like a possibility, it certainly was a bit surprising when the Rangers decided to part ways with winger Barclay Goodrow through waivers earlier this offseason.
Goodrow was viewed as a potential buyout candidate for the majority of the season but he appeared to have earned himself another life after finishing second on the team with six goals during the playoffs.
That’s exactly why the veteran was said to be annoyed by the organization’s under-the-table agreement with the Sharks to have him scooped up off waivers to get the remainder of his contract off their hands.
Goodrow spent his first few NHL seasons playing in San Jose, but they were said to be among the clubs on his 15-team no-move list which included those in “less than desirable locations and non-contenders.”
The Sharks certainly fit into the latter category coming off a campaign in which they missed the postseason for the fifth straight season and posted a league-worst 19-54-9 record.
But now that the offseason drama is officially behind him, first-year Sharks head coach Ryan Warsofsky says that Goodrow seems ready to roll as the team closes in on the beginning of training camp.
“We talked for a while and he’s in a good place,” he told Tom Gulitti of NHL.com. “I think he’s kind of turned the page on New York. This is a business and that’s part of life, he’s responded great and bought in. He’s excited and I’m excited because he’s a big piece for us.”
Goodrow and former Ranger Alex Wennberg are two of the veterans the Sharks added with hopes of them helping smooth out the transition for some of their young talent such as first overall pick Macklin Celebrini.
While it’s certainly a change from the situation he was in during his time in the Big Apple, the two-time Stanley Cup champion should thrive during his second stint with the rebuilding club.
Goodrow’s point production slowly dipped over the years, but he was always praised for the experience and leadership he brought both on and off the ice as a Blueshirt.
As for the Rangers, there appears to be an opportunity for some of their younger talent like Matt Rempe, Brennan Othmann, and Brett Berard to earn themselves a role during training camp.
