The San Jose Sharks no longer require the services of 33-year-old Martin Havlat and will attempt to unload the final season of his six-year, $30 million contract, according to general manager Doug Wilson.
Doug Wilson: "I have informed Marty Havlat that he will not be back this next season." #SJSharks
— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) May 15, 2014
Havlat was limited to 48 games during the regular season, recording 22 points. He appeared in one playoff game but was a healthy scratch for most of the series against the Los Angeles Kings, including the pivotal Game 7.
Sharks have both their compliance buyouts available to them. If they're unable to trade Havlat, they'll buy him out.
— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) May 15, 2014
Injuries caused Havlat to miss 85 regular-season games in three years with San Jose. The announcement of Havlat's departure fits with the Sharks' renewed focus on youth.
Wilson: “We will continue as we move towards a harder, younger, more aggressive team. The next phase of that process will start immediately”
— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) May 15, 2014