It's been nearly 48 hours since the floodgates opened on the free agent market, yet Doug Wilson's only signing involved a player who wouldn't have become a free agent until 2008. While other teams' home pages boast their signings of the likes of Chris Drury, Brian Rafalski and whatnot, the Sharks' website features Tim Hunter's fishing prowess. Now, change for change's sake is never a good thing and neither is overpaying for a player (See: Gainey, Bob and Hamrlik, Roman) but for a team like the Sharks that clearly underachieved last season and desperately need an injection of gritty, veteran players as well as defensive depth, a statement needs to be made and it needs to come from the man in charge. Here are a couple of defensemen who remain on the market that would be good fits for the Sharks:
D Danny Markov, Detroit Red Wings
Markov gave the Sharks fits in the playoffs last year as a member of Detroit and all indications coming out of Motown are that he will depart. At 6'1", 186 lbs., Markov's not the biggest defenseman available, but he thrives in a shutdown role and would make a potent replacement to Scott Hannan. Projected Salary: $2.5 million
D Aaron Miller, Los Angeles Kings
With a whopping zero goals and eight points in 82 games last season, Miller is far from a potent offensive weapon, but that's certainly not his role. The Buffalo native is known for playing a bruising brand of hockey and could be had for a bargain basement price. Projected Salary: $1 million
D Teppo Numminen, Buffalo Sabres
Although there are some unsubstantiated reports coming out of Buffalo that Numminen may re-sign with the Sabres, it's likely this 19-year NHL veteran whose name has never been engraved on the silver chalice would come to San Jose for a chance to chase Lord Stanley. In addition to his veteran leadership, Numminen brings with him solid defensive ability, some offensive potential and what is perhaps the shortest hockey stick in the NHL. Projected Salary: $1.8 million
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