SAN JOSE, Calif. - Rob Blake is heading up the California coast, hoping to end his stellar NHL career with a shot at another Stanley Cup title in San Jose. The veteran defenseman signed a one-year, $5 million contract with the Sharks on Friday, leaving Pacific Division rival Los Angeles for a more immediate chance at playoff success. Blake is the longtime face and soul of the Kings, spending 13 1/2 of his 18 NHL seasons with Los Angeles, including the past two campaigns. Just last month, Blake said he expected to re-sign with the club _ but when the Kings didn't contact Blake in the first few days of free agency, the Sharks quickly grabbed their rivals' captain to mentor their young defensemen while easing the impact of Brian Campbell's departure. "San Jose is something I've always admired," said Blake, a seven-time All-Star....
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