Anchored by tried and true veterans like Dan Boyle and the newly-acquired Brad Stuart, the San Jose Sharks defensive corps finds itself at a crossroads. With a dearth of young talent at the blue line and the window quickly closing on San Jose’s legitimate shot at a Stanley Cup, the Sharks defensemen contain a mix of sure-fire fantasy stars and flops.  

The San Jose defensemen are among the most disciplined group in the NHL. Boyle spent the most time in the penalty box during the 2011-2012 season, registering a mere 57 minutes. Colin White spent a scant 21 minutes in the box, the lowest among Sharks defensemen. If your team needs to beef up the PIM category, look elsewhere.

At 27 years old Brent Burns is San Jose’s only D-Man under 30 capable of putting up around 40 points a season.  He has spent time in his career as a forward as well as a defenseman and has potential to become a fantasy break-out. At the very least Burns is worth picking up during an offensive streak.

Marc-Edouard Vlasic is only 25, but isn’t a good option for any fantasy team. He doesn’t accrue a large amount of points or penalty minutes. He is a rock solid defensive player, but for fantasy purposes, there are better choices out there.

Brad Stuart’s veteran presence will be an asset to Team Teal’s corps. He’ll provide solid defense and likely have a fantastic plus/minus.  What he won’t have is goals, assists, or penalty minutes. Stuart is probably good for no more than 25 points and his shots on goal will be under 100.

Dan Boyle is 36 and nearing the end of his career. However, he remains a great option for your fantasy team, perhaps the best the Sharks have to offer. Although he won’t register a high number of penalty minutes, he loves to shoot the puck. Boyle can reach the 45 point range, will offer a good plus/minus rating, and well over 200 shots on goal.