The San Jose Sharks have traded defenseman Justin Braun to the Philadelphia Flyers for a 2019 2nd round pick (No. 41) and 2020 3rd round pick.
The 32-year old Braun carries a $3.8 million salary cap hit and a has a year left on his deal.
Braun was drafted 201st overall in the seventh round of the 2007 draft by the Sharks.
According to CapFriendly the Sharks now have 15 players under contract at about a projected $66.6 million cap hit – seven forwards, six defense and two goalies.
According to CapFriendly the Flyers now have 15 players under contract at about a projected $52.9 million cap hit – seven forwards, six defense and two goalies.
Pierre LeBrun: No salary was retained by the Sharks
Thoughts from the media:
Pierre LeBrun: “Aside from the cap relief, two other things to consider in dealing Braun: I don’t think SJ felt it could afford to extend him; and even if they did find a way, he likely is left exposed ahead of the Seattle expansion draft next year…. so this made sense for SJ for a few reasons.”
Pierre LeBrun: “Solid pickup for the Flyers, good matchup guy and penalty killer. Makes $3.8 million next season then UFA July 2020. Obviously for the Sharks they needed some cap relief.”
Jonathan Willis: “With Braun on the ice at 5-on-5 over the last three Seasons, San Jose has been out-Corsied 3,958-3,613 and outscored 168-134.
His main partner, Marc-Edouard Vlasic, has:
– a 46% Corsi with & 56% without
– a 48% shot share with & 55% without
– a 45% goal share with & 55% without
Jonathan Willis: “Braun’s still getting tough minutes and tough assignments. He used to excel in them, but at 32 it’s looking increasingly likely that he needs a step down in role, and at a $3.8-million cap hit the Sharks can’t afford the luxury. Philly has the money, at least.”
Jonathan Willis: “I should add: the raw numbers overstate things a bit here. Not only because of the way the Braun pairing was used, but because the other RD on the team are Burns and Karlsson. Even so, you can see San Jose’s reasoning here.”
Matt Larkin: “Seems clear that Sharks want to keep Pavelski if they can. Here’s step 1 toward making it possible. Still won’t be easy with RFA pacts coming for Meier and Labanc”
