In Episode 219, Paul and Aaron recap the final days of the preseason and look ahead to what fans can expect from the 2024-25 San Jose Sharks season.
The episode aired during the final preseason game against the Vegas Golden Knights. The hosts noted the irony of Vegas playing a majority of their NHL starters against a Sharks squad made up mostly of bottom-six bubble players, yet the game remained highly competitive.
Macklin Celebrini’s Injury and the Top Six
The biggest concern of the week was Macklin Celebrini leaving the game against Utah after a hard fall into the boards.
- Precautionary Measures: The hosts expressed confidence that the injury is not serious, noting that the team is likely holding him and the rest of the top six out of the final preseason games for purely precautionary reasons.
- The “Celebrini Effect”: Paul and Aaron discussed the “Celebrini effect” on the franchise, citing how established veterans like Tyler Toffoli chose to sign in San Jose specifically to play alongside the young star.
Daniel Gushchin Makes His Case
With the top six resting, Daniel Gushchin took center stage and continued his standout preseason performance.
- Making an Argument: After years of being viewed by some as a career AHL player, Gushchin has forced the coaching staff to make difficult roster decisions by consistently producing points and showing improved play away from the puck.
- Trade Value: Even if he does not secure a permanent spot in San Jose, the hosts noted that Gushchin has likely increased his value as a trade chip for teams looking for scoring depth.
Season Predictions: Points and Standings
The hosts analyzed various projections and shared their own expectations for where the Sharks will finish this year.
- Significant Improvement: While some models project the Sharks to finish fourth from the bottom of the league with around 83 points, Paul and Aaron believe the team will be far more interesting and competitive than last year.
- Battle for the Pacific: There was a debate regarding whether the Sharks could beat out the Anaheim Ducks or Calgary Flames to avoid finishing last in the Pacific Division.
- Calder Trophy Race: The hosts expect both Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith to be in the conversation for Rookie of the Year, likely competing against Philadelphia’s Matvei Michkov for the award.
Roster Turnover and Veteran Presence
The hosts highlighted the massive roster turnover, noting that the defense is significantly improved with the additions of Cody Ceci, Jake Walman, and the return of a healthy Matt Benning.
- Matt Benning’s Return: Benning’s preseason goal was described as a moment of “relief” and a confidence booster after he missed nearly all of the previous season due to injury.
- Mackenzie Blackwood: Despite some preseason losses, Blackwood was praised for keeping the team in games with “game breaking” saves, a familiar sight for Sharks fans from the prior season.
