Brent Burns Primed For Big Season With San Jose Sharks
When general manager Doug Wilson acquired Brent Burns before the 2011-12 season, it was anticipated that he would plug-in and become a dominant force on the San Jose Sharks blue line. However, Burns’ greatest impact in San Jose has come when he’s been a forward, playing alongside Joe Thornton.
After moving back to defense last season, Burns continued his offensive prowess, ranking second in the NHL, and fourth on the Sharks, with 60 points by a defenseman. His 17 goals and 43 assists, to go along with 245 shots shows the kind of offensive potential Burns possesses. Unfortunately, on defense, you also have to help prevent goals and that’s where Burns struggled.
Burns finished a minus-nine last year and often was lost in his defensive coverage. He was routinely turning the puck over which was resulting in quality scoring chances against. Case in point, his turnover to Marian Gaborik allowed the Los Angeles Kings to emerge with a 2-1 Stadium Series victory. That game epitomized the good-and-bad with Burns: the good he scored San Jose’s lone goal, but the bad his turnover led to the game-winner.
More from Editorials
- Korenar deserves a chance at the NHL level
- Three prospects the Sharks should consider drafting
- Red hot Couture provides a much needed boost
- Is it reasonable for the Sharks to fire Doug Wilson?
- NHL misses golden opportunity with Tahoe games
Burns is a key cog in the machine for the Sharks and Wilson brought in some help in order to help improve Burns’ defensive game. Wilson signed Paul Martin to a four-year deal and he was immediately paired with Burns. Throughout the preseason, Burns has been one of the standouts for San Jose.
Burns leads the team during exhibition play with two goals, two assists and a plus-five rating while averaging more than 24 minutes of ice time. Burns has demonstrated that he’s still a dynamic offensive player who will generate plenty of scoring chances for San Jose throughout the year.
More encouraging for Sharks fans, Burns appears to have settled into his role on the back end. By bringing in the veteran Martin, Burns now has a steadying playing partner who will allow him to continue to jump into the rush. Both players have clicked through their three preseason games, and I wouldn’t be shocked if this develops into San Jose’s best pair on the blue line.
While there will always be some sort of risk/reward with Brent Burns and his style of play, he’s poised for another big season. Another season on defense will only help Burns as he continues to learn the nuances of the position.
The offense will always be there with Burns, but his preseason play indicates that he’s developing into a more complete player and is poised for big things once again for the Sharks.
Next: Sharks Edge Canucks In Final Home Tune-Up