In this episode of The Fin Factor, Paul heads to Sharks Ice San Jose for exclusive 1-on-1 interviews with Sharks forwards Adam Gaudette and Zack Ostapchuk. As the team returns from the Olympic break, we get a behind-the-scenes look at the “training camp” intensity of recent practices and the personal lives of these key contributors.
Adam Gaudette: The “Hockey Gaud” and His Star Wars Sleeve
Adam Gaudette has found his rhythm this season, currently on pace for a career-high 21 goals. Paul sat down with him to discuss his journey back to being an everyday NHLer and his massive passion for a galaxy far, far away.
- Olympic Pride: A native of Braintree, Massachusetts, Gaudette was glued to the TV watching Team USA take home the Gold. He shared his excitement for the win, while also admitting he was rooting for his “buddy” and teammate Macklin Celebrini to have a great tournament for Canada.
- The Veteran Mentor: Now in his late 20s, Gaudette is embracing a leadership role, helping younger players like Ostapchuk navigate the “AHL-NHL bubble”.
- Star Wars Superfan: The highlight of the interview was a deep dive into Gaudette’s hobby. He discusses his full Star Wars sleeve tattoo and shared that his son is named Kylo. He even discussed his plans for future ink, including Darth Maul and Chewbacca, and his massive collection of Legos and lightsabers at home.
Zack Ostapchuk: From “Average Skater” to Speed Demon
Zack Ostapchuk has become a statistical “lucky charm” for the Sharks, with the team boasting an 18-11-3 record with him in the lineup compared to just 9-13-1 without him.
- Defying the Scouts: Ostapchuk addressed his original scouting reports that labeled him an “average” skater. Through intense offseason work, he has transformed his skating into a primary strength, even earning praise from veteran Ryan Reaves as one of the fastest players on the ice.
- The AHL Grind: Zach credited his time with the San Jose Barracuda for helping him learn to “play with men” and gain the confidence needed to make a permanent leap to the NHL.
- Power Forward Mentality: Standing at nearly 6’4″, Ostapchuk is focused on using his size to protect pucks and crash the net, learning the “X’s and O’s” from the coaching staff while mimicking the habits of veteran linemates like Barclay Goodrow.
Final Stretch Intensity
Both players noted that the Olympic break was anything but a vacation. Coach Ryan Warsofsky ran high-tempo, training-camp-style practices to ensure the team remains competitive in the Pacific Division playoff race.
