- Editor's note: Sheng Peng will be a regular contributor to NBC Sports California's Sharks coverage for the 2021-22 season. You can read more of his coverage on San Jose Hockey Now, listen to him on the San Jose Hockey Now Podcast, and follow him on Twitter at Sheng_Peng.
The San Jose Sharks have started the Trade Deadline with a bang, dealing defenseman Jake Middleton to the Minnesota Wild for goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen and a fifth-round pick.
Middleton has been a popular trade target in recent days, with teams valuing his old-school brand of physicality. Mostly partnered with Erik Karlsson this season, the 26-year-old has been a revelation after spending most of pro career with the San Jose Barracuda. In 45 games this season for the San Jose Sharks, he’s averaged 19:03 TOI. He’s making $725,000 this season and is scheduled to be an RFA after this year.
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SIGN UP HERE Kahkonen has been a solid back-up for Cam Talbot in Minnesota, posting a 28-16-3 record with a .906 Save %. Evolving Hockey hasn’t been as enthused with his work, his -17.31 Goals Saved Above Expected 40th of 48 qualified goalies this year. But he’s just 25, making $725,000 this season and will also be an RFA after this season.