FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – The San Jose Sharks have waived Givani Smith.

Smith has an AAV of $800,000 in the final season of a two-year contract signed in the summer of 2023. Since he is on a one-way contract, he will receive the same amount if he clears waivers and joins the AHL’s San Jose Barracuda.

In his two seasons with the San Jose Sharks, the 1.90 meter tall winger was unable to establish himself as a regular player. He has often been a healthy player, going six pointless games this season and playing in 36 games last year, recording one goal and three assists.

The enforcer’s toughness could be relied upon, posting 10 PIM this season and 40 PIM in limited action last year. According to hockeyfights.com, Smith had six fights in teal.

Before waiving Smith, the Sharks had a full 23-man roster. Winger Barclay Goodrow, currently on IR, practiced on Friday and could be close to returning to action. Marc-Edouard Vlasic has also been training with the team for at least a few weeks; He has yet to be activated this season as he recovers from an injury sustained in training camp.

The San Jose Sharks could have simply traded away exempt candidates Ethan Cardwell or Jack Thompson in favor of Goodrow or Vlasic, but it looks like they aren’t willing to do that.

The waiver of Givani Smith could also indicate that Will Smith, who is out with a day-to-day upper-body injury, does not have a serious injury and will not go on the IR. Placing Will Smith on IR was another way for the Sharks to secure a roster spot without giving up Givani Smith.

We’ll find out tomorrow, the San Jose Sharks practice in Florida around 10:30 am.