Hrudey Joins the Sharks in a ‘Pretty Easy Decision’

Signing a two-year deal with the San Jose Sharks worth about $2.3 million plus incentives “was a pretty easy decision,” goaltender Kelly Hrudey said Thursday.

“I had a frank discussion with people here, and I came away knowing this is the place I want to come and play,” said Hrudey, who was 7-15-10 with the Kings last season and for his King career ranked second only to Rogie Vachon in minutes played (20,565) and victories (145). “I still have a lot of fire left in me, and I’m excited about continuing to play, not just to earn a paycheck. . . . Can I carry the load of 50 to 55 games? No problem.”

Hrudey will probably compete with Chris Terreri and Wade Flaherty for the starting job. Arturs Irbe was signed to an offer sheet by the Dallas Stars, and the Sharks probably won’t match it.

Shark executives would not comment on their pursuit of another former King, Wayne Gretzky, but Hrudey said he would welcome playing with Gretzky again. “If he were to become a San Jose Shark, you’d have to count me as the happiest guy around,” he said.

The Vancouver Canucks are near offering Gretzky a long-term deal, and the New York Rangers are also interested. However, Madison Square Garden President Dave Checketts said the Rangers “without question” would not pay Gretzky more than the $6 million team captain Mark Messier will earn next season.

Also, the Kings signed defenseman John Slaney, who had been a restricted free agent, to a two-year contract. Terms were not disclosed. Slaney was acquired from Colorado in December and had 17 points in 31 games with the Kings.