Status Report: Scott Gomez
By Ryan Bayer
#23 Scott Gomez skates with the San Jose Sharks at the Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgray, AB, Canada January 20, 2013. Mandatory credit: Kevin Kurz/San Jose Sharks.
Today Unrestricted Free Agent Scott Gomez continues to be evaluated by the San Jose Sharks. Yesterday, forward Scott Gomez participated of the morning skate practice in Calgray with the teams healthy scratches. In addition, Gomez took part in his first full practice session with the Sharks in Edmonton as San Jose will be wrapping up their quick two game road trip in Canada. A decision has yet to be made on his status with the organization, but the final verdict could come as early tomorrow before San Jose takes on the Oilers.
The main objective for Scott Gomez and the Sharks is to make sure that he is at game shape before Doug Wilson takes a chance on him. Gomez was recently bought out by the Canadiens before he could finish the two final years he had left on that contract. The big question for the organization is where to fit Scott into the lineup.
As of today the Sharks are at full strength with 23 players on their roster. The centerman is however known for his playmaking skills and could find a home on the teams third line with both Galiardi and Wingels as potential linemates. For the past few seasons, San Jose has had major issues with secondary scoring and the addition by Gomez could very well help solve that outstanding issue. If he does happen to center the third line, Michal Handzus would get bumped down to the fourth line and alternate with Adam Burish who is the current centerman there.
Sharks Head Coach Todd McLellan took notice of Gomez today at practice.
****“For me, the fitness test is, can he keep up in practice right now? If you can’t, you’re not fit,” McLellan said. “From what I’ve seen – today was the first day he skated with us – he looked quick. The effort level in practice was strong.”****
****Link to quote: http://www.csncalifornia.com/blog/kevin-kurz/sharks-notes-gomez-skates-again-stuarts-second-debut****
Current Associate Coach Larry Robinson and Scott Gomez share a connection from their days with the New Jersey Devils organization. Gomez and Robinson won two Stanley Cups together in 2000 and 2003. So a change in scenery could be just what the doctor ordered for Gomez.
During the lockout he suited up for his hometown team the Alaska Aces of the ECHL. With the Alaska Aces, he played 11 games and recorded six goals and seven assists along with 12 penalty minutes to his credit.
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