$84 Million NHL Veteran Placed on Waivers Ahead of Contract Buyout

The Sharks and GM Mike Grier have issued a statement as well on their decision to place this long-time NHLer on waivers.

'This was a difficult decision to make today, with how much Marc has meant to the San Jose organization for 19 years," said General Manager Mike Grier. 'I was fortunate enough to be here with Marc for his first season with the Sharks, and knew he would become a great defenseman. Over the course of his career in the NHL, Vlasic was one of the premier shutdown defensemen, earning tough defensive assignments on the ice against the best players in the world and doing it with effectiveness.'

'With over 1,300 games in the NHL, he brought immense expertise and experience to the organization daily, and was selected to represent his country on multiple occasions at the highest level. He will go down not only as one of the best defensemen in franchise history, but one of the best players.'

'We want to thank him for his dedication and commitment to the organization, and wish him all the best.'

Mike Grier, GM of the San Jose Sharks

In his lengthy 19-year career, Vlasic has totalled 84 goals and 295 assists for 379 points, in 1,323 games, all unbelievably spent with the Sharks.

The Sharks selected Vlasic in the second round during the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. It is truly a shocking day for the organization and player alike, and it will be interesting to see if any other teams jump on the chance to pick up this veteran defenseman.