In Episode 210, Paul and Aaron conclude the 2023-24 regular season with an extensive review of what they describe as a “hellish” and “historically bad” year for the San Jose Sharks. Despite the difficult results on the ice, the hosts maintain an optimistic long term outlook, focusing on the silver lining of the team’s draft position.
The Sharks finished the season 32nd overall in the NHL, securing the best possible odds for the upcoming draft lottery.
Historically Bad Statistics
The hosts didn’t shy away from the staggering numbers that defined the season.
- League Worst Standing: The Sharks finished last in the league, which was the primary goal for fans hoping to secure a top draft pick.
- Goal Differential: The team finished with a negative 150 goal differential, which Aaron noted ranks as the 10th worst in NHL history.
- Preseason Predictions: Aaron pointed out that while he predicted a bad season, the team was even worse than he anticipated, falling far short of his 68 point projection.
Roster Analysis and Individual Standouts
Despite the overall team struggles, several players were highlighted for their individual efforts and development.
- Mikael Granlund: Initially viewed as a third-line center, Granlund’s performance was a bright spot, leading the hosts to argue the team’s center depth wasn’t as bad as the record suggested.
- Fabian Zetterlund: Zetterlund ended the season on a high note, scoring his 24th goal in the final game against Calgary.
- Nico Sturm: Sturm was praised for his leadership and effort, with Paul jokingly referring to him as the “captain of my heart”.
- Thomas Bordeleau: After early season struggles, Bordeleau’s late season improvement in his 200 foot game gave the hosts hope that he could avoid becoming a “tweener”.
- Goaltending Stability: The hosts expressed surprise at the relative stability of the goaltending duo (Blackwood and Vanecek) given the team’s defensive struggles.
The “Macklin Celebrini” Prize
The entire season review centered on the “successful” failure to secure the best odds for the first overall pick.
- Savior of the Franchise: Macklin Celebrini is viewed as the consensus prize who could instantly transform the organization.
- Lottery Odds: By finishing 32nd, the Sharks have done their part to maximize the chances of drafting a foundational superstar.
Mike Grier and Future Management
The episode touched on General Manager Mike Grier’s strategy and the difficult decisions ahead.
- Strategic Demolition: The hosts discussed Grier’s aggressive approach to clearing contracts and acquiring prospects as a necessary “churn” for the rebuild.
- Ownership Support: It was noted that owner Hasso Plattner is willing to spend to the cap when the team is ready, but for now, they are intentionally not a “cap team”.
- The Logan Couture Question: Significant concern was expressed over captain Logan Couture’s health and whether he would be able to play in a Sharks uniform again.
