Sharks' Ryane Clowe skating with S.F. Bulls

The San Jose Sharks' Ryane Clowe is practicing with the ECHL's San Francisco Bulls to bring structure to his prolonged offseason, and there's a slim chance he could see game action with the club. CSN Bay Area reported that he attended his first practice with the Bulls on Tuesday.

Club president and head coach Pat Curcio said that he'd welcome the 30-year-old if it were his wish to play for the Bulls. The lack of insurance is holding Clowe back right now, and he said that the year remaining on his contract would also make the move a bit risky. So does the unknown length of the current NHL lockout.

While other players in the league have headed overseas to stay sharp, Clowe added that playing in nearby San Francisco is an added benefit.

For now, he'll use the access to the Bulls as a way to stay prepared in case the NHL and the players' association come to an agreement.

Clowe played in 76 games for the Sharks last year, scoring 17 goals and tallying 28 assists.