The San Jose Sharks have made some great decisions on trades over the past five years.  However, trading center Mike Ricci to the Phoenix Coyotes has come back to haunt them. 

The tribute to Ricci on Nov. 19 not only reminded the fans in attendance of his hard work, but his true spirit of being a Shark.

Prior to the season, the Sharks were considered to be a huge offensive threat to the league.  Through 20 games, the Sharks average 32.3 shots on goal a game (5^th in the NHL) but manage only 2.55 goal per game on average (27^th in the NHL).

Where does Ricci fit into this picture?  Actually, he fits perfectly in front of the net, where he’s best known for his aggressive nature.  The Sharks rarely have anyone parked in front of the net, waiting to put the rebounds in the net.

Ricci is having a terrible season in Phoenix, with only two goals and one assist throughout 19 games.   Imagine what kind of season he would have if he remained with the Sharks.  Basically, Ricci wouldn’t have had to do anything except what he does best: park in front of the net, receive the brutality of the opposing defense, and put the puck in the net.

After the lockout, the Sharks’ management decided to fix things up.  They got rid of many of the older veterans including Curtis Brown, Todd Harvey and, of course, Ricci.

The reason they gave away was to develop the younger players and create a solid team in the future.  A lot of professional teams do that.  The Oakland A’s have been successful following this plan. 

As the tribute for Ricci aired while fans screamed “Reech,” we were reminded of something great the Sharks gave up: a great shark.