A couple of week ago, we told you about Claude Lemieux, one of the National Hockey League's greatest agitators, surfacing in China as a member of the China Sharks of the Asia Hockey League. Turns out, it was a relatively brief trip for him, as he's now inked a tryout contract with the San Jose Sharks, taking one more step towards his ultimate goal of completing an NHL comeback.
Lemieux will report to the Sharks American Hockey League team in Worcester sometime this week. During his two-game stint in China, he recorded no goals and one assist, with seven shots on goal and four penalty minutes.
Apparently, the 43-year old Lemiuex is a longtime friend of Sharks general manager Doug Wilson, which probably played a role in his signing with San Jose.
He last played in the NHL during the 2002-03 season with the Phoenix Coyotes and Dallas Stars, recording 20 points (eight goals, 12 assists) in 68 games.
I'm not sure how much of an impact a 43-year old grinder is going to have for the Sharks, especially one that hasn't played in the NHL in years -- and it's not like the Sharks are in dire need of help up front. Of course, as Greg Wyshynski suggests over at Puck Daddy, perhaps the Sharks are just looking to add a little fire and brimstone to their inevitable playoff meeting with the defending champs. I hear they have quite a history with Mr. Lemieux.
Claude Lemieux Signs Tryout Deal With San Jose Sharks, Reporting to Minor Leagues originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 15:08:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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