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Sharks GM: Goal still playoffs despite Murray trade

DougWilson

Even after trading defenseman Douglas Murray to the Pittsburgh Penguins, the San Jose Sharks wouldn’t classify themselves as sellers.

“This doesn’t take away our goal of trying to make the playoffs this year,” Sharks GM Doug Wilson said in a CSN Bay Area report. “We have to play better on a 60-minute basis for longer periods of time, to accomplish that.”

Although they have struggled mightily since their 7-0-0 start to the season, the Sharks are still very much in the race for a playoff spot.

“The reality is, we haven’t played up to the way we think we’re capable of playing,” Wilson said. “We haven’t been very consistent. But, this is a hockey trade that involves a player I have tremendous respect for…he’s a pending UFA. Pittsburgh was willing to pay very full value for him.”

The Penguins surrendered two second-round picks for the 33-year-old physical blueliner, although one of them will become a third-round selection if Murray fails to re-sign with Pittsbrugh or the team doesn’t win at least two playoff rounds.

It’s worth noting that Wilson’s comments largely echo what Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk said after he shipped Brenden Morrow to the Penguins.

“The guys are focused,” Nieuwendyk said. “I talked to them this morning because it is a big deal when you move your captain (but) this doesn’t change our mindset at all of making the playoffs.”

With the race for the playoff spots tight this season, it’s difficult to find true sellers, but as Wilson put it, “Pittsburgh was very aggressive.”

Related:

Report: Despite acquisitions, Penguins still pursuing Iginla

Report: Flyers show interest in trading for Dan Boyle