I completely agree with this statement. If this team truly wants to compete as they have stated, then they absolutely must add at least one forward. I love Alex True to death, but he is a fourth liner. Noah Gregor scored some goals and is fast, but his underlying numbers are concerning. Gambrell looked passive in the AHL and looks similar in the NHL. In my opinion, none of these guys or any of the others who came up last year are third liners at the moment.
Counting LaBanc and Sorensen, there are 7 forwards that seem like locks: Hertl, Couture, Kane, Donato, and Meier. Thornton and Marleau possibly brings the number to 9. I think the Sharks need two UFA forwards to compete, which leaves two spots for young guys too.
DW must take advantage of the market. I would love a top six, but the team can compete with two middle six guys, ideally on 2 year deals if possible. I believe there’s been rumors of the Sharks liking Namestikov, who could play up and down a lineup and can penalty kill. I’m ignorant to Smith’s playmaking ability. Perhaps he’s someone who falls through the cracks.
I’m perfectly fine with a transition year. However, if this team’s stated goal is the playoffs and compete, then they need to take the steps to do so.