San Jose Sharks re-sign Scott Hannan to one-year, $1 million deal
The San Jose Sharks have re-signed veteran defenseman Scott Hannan to a one-year, $1 million contract, the team announced Thursday. In a statement, general manager Doug Wilson suggested that his role will be about mentoring as much as contributing on the ice:
More from NHL
- NHL Rumors: Legendary Patrice Bergeron retires, which 3 players could be next to hang up their skates?
- NHL Rumors: Latest on Hart, Hellebuyck, Gibson trade possibilities
- NHL Rumors: 5 forwards most likely to sign early extensions this summer
- NHL Rumors: Where things stand with Erik Karlsson, Penguins and Hurricanes
- NHL Rumors: Penguins nearly traded for Erik Karlsson at deadline
"“Scott is a high-character, veteran player who leads by example,” said Wilson. “He understands and accepts his role based on the needs of our team and will be a great mentor for many of the younger players on our roster.”"
Hannan, 35, re-joined the Sharks late in the 2012-13 season after spending the first eight years of his career in San Jose. He appeared in 56 games last season, recording three goals and 12 points while averaging nearly 18 minutes of ice time. Given his advanced age, and Wilson’s comments, he probably won’t see quite as much playing time next season.
Originally drafted by San Jose in the first round of the 1997 draft, Hannan made his debut with the team in 1999 and became a mainstay with the Sharks through the 2006-07 season. He bounced around the league in his early 30s, playing for the Avalanche, Capitals, Flames and Predators before returning to San Jose last year.
The Sharks already lost one mainstay from last season’s defense in Dan Boyle, who signed with the New York Rangers as a free agent earlier this month. The team still has Marc-Edouard Vlasic, Justin Braun, Matt Irwin and Jason Demers to hold down the top four spots on the defensemen chart next season, leaving Hannan to provide depth and leadership.