Scott Gomez practiced with the Sharks on Monday, but the team is not expected to make an announcement on his future just yet. (Pierre-Paul Poulin/QMI Agency)
Scott Gomez is nearing a return to the NHL with the San Jose Sharks.
The unrestricted free agent -- bought out by the Montreal Canadiens last week -- practiced with the Sharks on Monday, but the team is not expected to make an announcement on his future just yet, reports the San Jose Mercury News.
Sharks head coach Todd McLellan said the 33-year-old appeared to be in good condition even though he hasn't taken a formal fitness test.
"To me, a fitness test is, 'Can you keep up in practice?' because if you can't, you're not fit and we don't have enough time," McLellan said. "(Monday) was the first day he skated with us, and he looked quick. The effort level in practice was strong."
Gomez was obtained by Montreal from the New York Rangers, who signed him to a seven-year, $51.5 million deal in 2007, in a multi-player deal. He is owed $10 million over the next two seasons.
