Jake Walman Traded to the Detroit Red Wings
Sharks Acquire Oskar Sundqvist in the Deal
The San Jose Sharks have traded defenseman Jake Walman to the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for forward Oskar Sundqvist, the teams announced Tuesday.
Walman, 26, has spent the past three seasons with the Sharks, recording 22 points (five goals, 17 assists) in 122 games. He was a key part of San Jose's penalty kill and averaged over 19 minutes of ice time per game last season.
Sundqvist, 28, has played the past four seasons with the Red Wings, scoring 52 points (20 goals, 32 assists) in 235 games. He is a versatile forward who can play center or wing and is known for his strong defensive play.
The trade is a bit of a surprise, as Walman was a regular in the Sharks' lineup and was signed through the 2024-25 season. However, the Sharks are rebuilding and are likely looking to get younger and more cost-effective.
The Red Wings, on the other hand, are looking to add some depth to their defense and are likely hoping that Walman can be a top-four defenseman for them.
What Does This Mean for the Sharks and Red Wings?
For the Sharks, this trade is a sign that they are committed to rebuilding. Walman was a good player, but he was not a part of the Sharks' long-term plans.
The Sharks are now likely to give more ice time to younger players like Mario Ferraro and Ryan Merkley.
For the Red Wings, this trade is a sign that they are looking to compete for a playoff spot. Walman is a good, young defenseman who can help the Red Wings improve their penalty kill and add some depth to their defense.
The Red Wings are now likely to have a top-four defenseman group of Moritz Seider, Filip Hronek, Walman, and Olli Määttä.
Conclusion
The trade of Jake Walman from the San Jose Sharks to the Detroit Red Wings is a sign that both teams are looking to make changes.
The Sharks are rebuilding and are likely looking to get younger and more cost-effective.
The Red Wings, on the other hand, are looking to add some depth to their defense and are likely hoping that Walman can be a top-four defenseman for them.
