SAN JOSE, California — The San Jose Sharks concluded another season at the bottom of the National Hockey League standings, marking their second consecutive year in this position.
However, their journey this season offered a glimmer of hope. The team showcased encouraging performances from a youthful core, spearheaded by rookies Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith. Their improved competitiveness suggests that the Sharks, who have been absent from the playoffs for the past six seasons, might be nearing a return to contention.
General Manager Mike Grier acknowledged the progress, stating, “It was a step forward. While finishing where we did was disappointing, this is ultimately a league judged by wins and losses. Our record reflects our position. Despite the frustration, the team showed enhanced play and greater competitiveness. Nevertheless, there`s still considerable work ahead.”
The Sharks` final record for the season was 20-50-12, totaling a league-low 52 points. This was a slight improvement from the previous season, yet it marked them as the first team in a decade to endure at least 50 regulation losses in two successive seasons.
The team`s goal difference improved by 44 compared to the prior season. However, they still ranked last in the NHL for both goals scored and goals conceded.
First-year coach Ryan Warsofsky described the season as “frustrating.” He noted individual and collective growth but emphasized, “We clearly have much more to accomplish.”
Grier indicated that the upcoming off-season`s primary focus will be on bolstering the defense, aiming for better lead preservation.
This season, the Sharks suffered 10 regulation losses after leading in the third period, a league-leading number. They also had an additional five losses in overtime or shootouts after holding a third-period lead.
Their eight regulation losses when leading after two periods were the highest in eight years and tied for the most in the NHL since at least the 1970-71 season.
Warsofsky commented on the narrow margins in the league, “Winning and losing are separated by fine lines, often just a play or a save here or there. We experienced that this year, and our players witnessed it firsthand. These experiences, though challenging, are valuable for learning and growth.”
Warsofsky believes the team`s youth contributed to these challenges, but also sees it as their greatest potential for future improvement.
Celebrini, the top draft pick from last year, had an impressive rookie season at 18. He led rookies in goals with 25, ranked second in points with 63, and frequently played as a top-line center against top opponents.
Celebrini expressed a desire to reduce turnovers, and Warsofsky believes decision-making will improve with experience.
“I cannot praise this kid enough,” Warsofsky said about Celebrini. “His work ethic, competitiveness, and innate leadership are remarkable. He’s a natural winner and will significantly contribute to this organization’s victories very soon, and he already has. Like any player, there are areas for improvement, but Macklin inspires his teammates with his competitive spirit. We are extremely pleased with his season.”
Smith, the fourth pick in the 2023 draft, also showed promise as a rookie, scoring 18 goals and 45 points, with his strongest performances towards the season`s end.
Several other young players, including William Eklund, Shakir Mukhamadullin, Collin Graf, and Henry Thrun, made valuable contributions. There are also hopes for Yaroslav Askarov to step up as the primary goalie next season.
With more young talent in development and two first-round picks, including a high pick, there is optimism for the future. This is further enhanced by the Sharks` potential to utilize their salary cap space to acquire experienced veterans in the off-season.
“Around the league, people are noticing our talented young players who are quickly developing and approaching,” Warsofsky noted. “We have excellent people within this organization. There’s a clear indication that this team is progressing and heading in the right direction.”
