The San Jose Sharks opened their preseason schedule with a pair of games against the Vegas Golden Knights, offering the first real look at how the “New Era” roster is starting to take shape. While the results were a mixed bag, the performance of specific high-end rookies and the veterans’ discipline became the primary focus.
Preseason Recap: Sharks vs. Golden Knights
- Game 1 (3-0 Win): The Sharks secured a shutout victory against a Vegas “B squad” that lacked significant NHL talent. Alex Nedeljkovic preserved the shutout with a spectacular breakaway save while the game was still 2-0.
- The Goal Scorers: Veterans John Klingberg, Jeff Skinner, and Tyler Toffoli (empty netter) all found the scoresheet, providing some early veteran offensive production.
- Game 2 (Not so hot): The second matchup was a different story, with the Sharks struggling to maintain momentum as Vegas fielded a more experienced lineup.
Rookie Watch: Dickinson and Smith Shine
While the veterans scored the goals in Game 1, the young prospects drove the play:
- Sam Dickinson: The high-end defensive prospect recorded two assists in the first game. The hosts highlighted his comfort jumping into the play and his ability to read the ice at an NHL speed.
- Will Smith: Smith earned a “meaningful” secondary assist on Skinner’s goal. Paul praised his puck protection and vision, specifically a play where he hit the brakes, wheeled back on the wall, and found a streaking Dickinson.
- Michael Misa: Having Misa in the lineup early provided a glimpse into the future offensive core, with the hosts noting he already looks like he belongs in the conversation for a permanent roster spot.
Discipline and Coaching: Warsofsky’s Standard
A major talking point was the lack of discipline in the second game, particularly regarding “stick infractions.”
- Barclay Goodrow Under Fire: The veteran forward was called out for taking multiple “dumb” penalties.
- The Message: Head coach Ryan Warsofsky addressed these infractions directly, noting that stick penalties are often the result of “not moving your feet”. The hosts speculated that even established veterans like Goodrow or Ty Dellandrea might find themselves on the hot seat if these habits continue.
Future Outlook: The Face of the NHL
The episode touched on a recent player poll where Macklin Celebrini was overwhelmingly voted as the future face of the NHL by his peers. This hype, combined with the team’s plan to enhance the fan experience through arena renovations and new “game day effects,” has the hosts optimistic about the franchise’s trajectory.
