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Sherwood’s Move Will Energize Sharks and Haunt Canucks

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | By Old Prof | Last updated Jan 19, 2026 4:42 PM ET

When the Vancouver Canucks signed Kiefer Sherwood to a modest two-year deal, no one expected much. Maybe he could become a solid depth forward or a physical presence. Just maybe he’d put up a goal here or there. That was the plan.

What happened instead was a transformation. Sherwood became a hybrid player: a grinder who hits, skates hard, and adds offence. Through 44 games this season, he had 17 goals and six assists and almost more hits than one can count. He’s a menace along the boards and never shies away from the thick of the action.

The Canucks Will Lose More than Sherwood’s Goals

Today, the Canucks traded Sherwood to the San Jose Sharks. For Vancouver, losing Sherwood is huge. He’s the kind of player who gives the team identity. He hounds the puck, drives the play, and sets the tone every night – even every shift. With the Canucks, he’s proven to be dependable, works hard without drama, and mentors younger players just by example.

Injuries this season only made his value more visible. When others went down, Sherwood logged big minutes, contributed on the power play, and never blinked. Then, when he was injured himself, he left a huge hole that has been impossible to fill. His consistency and grit will be tough to replace, and the Canucks will feel it.

What the Sharks Will Get from Sherwood

San Jose, meanwhile, is getting far more than a body. Sherwood brings energy, gamesmanship, and a physical edge to a team of solid veterans. Tyler Toffoli, Alex Wennberg, and the Sharks’ young core now have a teammate who knows how to push the pace and set a tone without asking for the spotlight.

Being from Columbus, Ohio, Sherwood should enjoy life in San Jose—and that personal comfort only adds to his professional focus. That makes him a cultural fit as well as a player who can lead, grind, and contribute offensively. In short, he’ll elevate the group.

The Sharks Grab a Middle-Six Forward Who Can Elevate His Play

There’s a method to this trade. San Jose picks up a guy who can handle key moments and sets the tone with effort and grit. The Canucks pick up two second-round picks and Cole Clayton. However, they’re losing a player who brings life to their lineup. Sherwood is not a superstar, but he’s the kind of teammate the Sharks will love having.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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