Fifth year center Travis Oleksuk(11) splits for the Italian-based HC Bolzano Foxes of Este Bank Eishockey Liga.
He played under an AHL contract last season with Hartford Wolf Pack, scoring 7 goals and 15 assists in a mostly energy line role, after three years as a San Jose Sharks‘ prospect.
At 27-years old heading into his 2nd unrestricted free agency it’s possible he wanted a bit more from his pro hockey than the minor leagues could offer and should excel unlike he ever has on the score sheet with his new squad.
Faceoff Dot: Travis Oleksuk(21) vs. Ryan Olsen(9)
Worcester Sharks‘ 3rd year center Travis Oleksuk(21) vs. St. John’s IceCaps‘ rookie Ryan Olsen(9).
Travis Oleksuk(21) Worcester Sharks
San Jose Sharks‘ 2nd year undrafted center Travis Oleksuk(21) is catching heat in his pro game at just the right time.
He’s in the 2nd and final season of his entry level deal and has increased his goal totals by four times what he produced in his rookie campaign and his assist mark is already on par with what he passed along for helpers.
In 56 AHL games with farm club Worcester Sharks he has 12 goals, 10 assists and is a dynamo in the face off circle.
The 6′ 200 lbs. forward may not be the most obvious guy on the ice with his somewhat mild-mannered temperament but most definitely has proven the ability to get the job done and keep himself out of the penalty box.
He won a pair of college hockey championships while at University Of Minnesota-Duluth (WCHA in 2009 and the 2011 NCAA title) and excelled on the score sheet in his last two seasons.
The 25-year old is set to become a restricted free agent at the end of the current campaign and seems like a low-risk player to receive a qualifying offer for at least another year, with potentially more upside.