Sharks' Nedeljkovic Adopts New Mindset Ahead of Trade Deadline

Goaltender focuses on his play rather than trade rumors as contract expires

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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San Jose Sharks goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic, a pending unrestricted free agent, says he has a new mental approach to the NHL trade deadline this year. After previously getting distracted by trade speculation, Nedeljkovic now plans to avoid talking to his agent unless there is a serious contract extension offer from Sharks GM Mike Grier to consider.

Why it matters

Nedeljkovic's performance and future with the Sharks could be a key factor as the team evaluates its roster ahead of the trade deadline. His ability to maintain focus on the ice rather than get caught up in trade rumors will be important for both his own career and the Sharks' success this season.

The details

Nedeljkovic said he was previously "worrying about what they're saying more than what I'm doing on the ice" during past trade deadlines, which started to affect his play. "I started looking at every puck as a dollar sign," he admitted. Now, the 27-year-old goaltender plans to avoid discussing his contract situation with his agent unless Grier presents a serious offer to extend his stay in San Jose.

  • The NHL trade deadline is on March 3, 2026.

The players

Alex Nedeljkovic

A 27-year-old goaltender for the San Jose Sharks who is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2025-26 season.

Mike Grier

The general manager of the San Jose Sharks.

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What they’re saying

“After going through it a few times...I was worrying about what they're saying more than what I'm doing on the ice. And I was allowing that to affect me on the ice. I started looking at every puck as a dollar sign.”

— Alex Nedeljkovic, San Jose Sharks goaltender (San Jose Hockey Now)

What’s next

The Sharks will need to decide whether to trade Nedeljkovic before the March 3 deadline or attempt to re-sign him to a contract extension.

The takeaway

Nedeljkovic's new mental approach to the trade deadline could help him maintain focus and play at a high level, which will be crucial for both his own future and the Sharks' success this season as they evaluate their roster options.