New Sharks forward Mike Hoffman reacted to the trade sending him to San Jose from Montreal hours after hearing the news on Sunday.
Hoffman said he didn’t expect to be compromised at all in what is usually a quiet time in the NHL.
“I was surprised at the start, but after taking the shock, it’s an exciting time for my family and me,” Hoffman said. We look forward to this opportunity to play in San Jose. It will be a change, I have never lived on the west coast. We can’t wait to start the adventure in September. “
Hoffman leaves an organization in reconstruction to join another that finds itself at the same point. At 33 years old and with 679 games of experience in the NHL, the native of Kitchener, Ontario wants to lead by example with his new organization.
“I want to lead by example by showing them what it takes to be a good NHL player, both on and off the ice. This is my biggest goal. I want to be a professional example to help young players. “
The striker had a brief chat with Sharks general manager Mike Greer, who welcomed him to the squad where, by his own admission, he doesn’t personally know any of the team’s players. Next year, Hoffman will serve out the final year of a three-year contract that will pay him $4.5 million in 2023-24.
“I feel very good physically. I want to bring attack and contribute on the numerical advantage. I want to be a veteran who leads by example. “
Hoffman laughed when told it was his second stint in San Jose. On June 19, 2018, he was acquired from the Ottawa Senators before being traded back to the Florida Panthers for three draft picks.
“Last time I was with the Sharks for only an hour. Looks like I’m here for a little longer this time. It will be a great experience,” admitted the veteran.
In two seasons in Montreal, Hoffman had more lows than highs. In 134 regular season games, the scorer was limited to 29 goals and 40 assists, in addition to posting a differential of -34. Despite everything, he will have fond memories of his two seasons with the Canadiens.
“I really enjoyed my time in Montreal. It’s a good group of players, a great group of coaches. I didn’t play up to my potential, but I think I still have a lot to contribute and I want to prove it in San Jose. “
Along with longtime veterans Tomas Hertl and Logan Couture, the Sharks will have plenty of new faces such as Anthony Duclair and Filip Zadina. On offense, youngsters Alexander Barabanov, Fabian Zetterlund and Thomas Bordeleau should get increased chances to develop within the team.
