ROSTER RUNDOWN
Making the cut
Shakir Mukhamadullin, who is currently day-to-day due to an injury, is an emerging defenseman prospect acquired from the trade that sent Timo Meier to the Devils on February 26, 2023. The 22-year-old made his NHL debut on January 27 and recorded his first NHL point, an assist, in his third game. Selected for the AHL All-Star Classic, he also earned the title of San Jose Barracuda MVP and was recognized as the prospect of the year, achieving 34 points (seven goals, 27 assists) in 55 AHL games. “I genuinely believe he’s very close to becoming a part of the National Hockey League,” said Warsofsky.
Most intriguing addition
The Sharks front office celebrated the acquisition of Askarov, with Grier declaring it “a really big day for our franchise.” Nashville’s first-round pick (No. 11) in the 2020 NHL Draft, Askarov was the top-rated European goalie in NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings. He finished with a record of 56-29-6, boasting a 2.55 GAA, .911 save percentage, and nine shutouts in 92 games over two seasons with the AHL’s Milwaukee. Although currently day-to-day with an injury, Askarov has a record of 1-1-0, alongside a 2.58 GAA and .914 save percentage from three NHL games. A legitimate opportunity is likely forthcoming.
Biggest potential surprise
Ty Dellandrea is embarking on a new journey after being traded to San Jose by the Dallas Stars on June 19, followed by signing a two-year contract worth .6 million on July 4. The 24-year-old forward accumulated nine points (two goals, seven assists) in 42 games last season and netted one goal in six playoff appearances. Due to the rise of Stars forward Logan Stankoven, Dellandrea often found himself as a healthy scratch toward the end of the season but managed to score the game-winning goal in a 4-2 victory against the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 4 of the Western Conference First Round. He is projected for the fourth line, but has the potential to move up if he can duplicate his performance from the 2022-23 season, where he achieved 28 points (nine goals, 19 assists) in 82 games, contributing to Dallas’s advancement to the Western Conference Final in consecutive seasons.
Ready to contribute
Celebrini has become the fourth NCAA freshman since the beginning of the millennium to record a season with at least 30 goals and 30 assists. He is the only freshman since 2005-06 to achieve 22 goals in his first 25 games, aiding Boston University to reach the Frozen Four semifinals, where they experienced a 2-1 overtime defeat to the University of Denver. “He’s an alpha,” remarked Sharks director of amateur scouting Chris Morehouse. “When he enters a room, his presence is immediately felt.”
Fantasy sleeper
Jake Walman, D (typically undrafted in fantasy leagues) — Coming off his best season with the Detroit Red Wings, Walman scored 21 points (12 goals, nine assists) in 63 games. He could find more opportunities in San Jose, potentially allowing him to participate in power-play rotations. As the season begins, Walman is a player to keep an eye on in the waiver wire. — Anna Dua
Sharks Roster Rundown: Key Prospects and Potential Surprises for the Upcoming Season
The San Jose Sharks enter the upcoming season with a blend of experienced players and exciting prospects. This roster rundown highlights key players to watch, potential surprises, and insights that could shape the Sharks’ performance in the NHL. With a focus on talent development and strategic gameplay, let’s delve into the essential components of the Sharks’ roster.
Key Prospects to Watch
As the Sharks look to build a competitive team, several prospects stand out due to their skills and contributions in the previous seasons. Here are some top prospects to keep an eye on:
- William Eklund – Eklund is a highly touted forward who has demonstrated exceptional playmaking abilities. His vision on the ice and knack for scoring make him a player to watch as he transitions into a more significant role.
- Thomas Bordeleau – Known for his speed and agility, Bordeleau has made waves in the AHL. His performance in training camp will be critical in determining if he secures a spot in the main roster.
- Ryan Merkley – This skilled defenseman possesses the offensive flair that can benefit the Sharks’ blue line. Observing his growth and ability to adapt to the NHL pace will be crucial.
- Brinson Pasichnuk – After a solid performance in the minor leagues, Pasichnuk brings a mix of physicality and skill. His versatility could make him a valuable asset to the team.
Expected Impact of Key Prospects
The integration of key prospects like Eklund and Bordeleau into the Sharks’ lineup can significantly impact the team’s dynamics. Here’s how:
- Offensive Depth: Eklund’s scoring ability can bolster the Sharks’ offensive line, providing more options during critical game moments.
- Speed and Transition: Bordeleau’s speed and agility can enhance the team’s transition game, allowing for quicker breakouts and counter-attacks.
- Defensive Stability: Merkley’s ability to contribute offensively while maintaining solid defensive play can help stabilize the Sharks’ defense.
Potential Surprises on the Roster
While key prospects are often highlighted, the Sharks may also have some surprises in store for the upcoming season. Here are a few players who could defy expectations:
- Luke Kunin - Acquired in a trade, Kunin has the potential to become a core player. His physical play and scoring touch could lead to a breakout season.
- Kevin Labanc - Labanc has faced criticism in past seasons but possesses a high offensive ceiling. A rebound year could propel him back into the spotlight.
- John Leonard – After a promising rookie season, Leonard is poised to make an impact with increased ice time and responsibility. His determination could lead to surprising results.
Assessing the Competition
Understanding how these players stack up against their competition is vital for the Sharks’ strategy. The following table summarizes the performance metrics of key Sharks players from the previous season:
| Player | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Plus/Minus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Timo Meier | 77 | 35 | 41 | +9 |
| Logan Couture | 81 | 27 | 30 | -3 |
| Brent Burns | 82 | 10 | 21 | -15 |
| Erik Karlsson | 52 | 10 | 20 | -8 |
Benefits of Fostering Young Talent
Integrating young talent into the Sharks’ roster brings numerous benefits. Here are some key advantages:
- Increased Energy: Young players often bring high energy and enthusiasm, which can invigorate the team and improve overall performance.
- Long-term Growth: Developing young talent helps secure the team’s future, establishing a new core of players who can contribute over the long term.
- Fan Engagement: Promoting young prospects fosters excitement among the fan base, enhancing attendance and overall support for the team.
Practical Tips for Fans
As the season approaches, Sharks fans can take proactive steps to stay engaged and support their team. Here are some practical tips:
- Subscribe to Updates: Follow the Sharks’ official website and social media channels for real-time updates on player performances and roster changes.
- Attend Preseason Games: Preseason games are a great opportunity to see new prospects in action and gauge their potential impact on the team.
- Join Fan Communities: Engage with other fans in online forums and social media groups to share insights, opinions, and support for the Sharks.
First-Hand Experience: Observing Training Camp
Attending the Sharks’ training camp can provide valuable insights into the players’ progress. Observing drills, scrimmages, and interactions can reveal how well the prospects are adapting to the NHL level. Here are some observations from fans who attended recent camps:
- Many fans noted Eklund’s impressive puck handling and ability to read plays, suggesting he could be a valuable asset early in the season.
- Several attendees commented on Bordeleau’s speed, highlighting his potential to disrupt defenses and create scoring opportunities.
- Merkley’s defensive positioning was praised, indicating a readiness to make the jump to the NHL with confidence.
Conclusion
As the Sharks prepare for the upcoming season, their roster showcases a blend of promising prospects and experienced players. With careful consideration of how these elements come together, fans can expect an exciting year filled with surprises and growth. Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds!
