The San Jose Sharks are facing multiple injury challenges as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Boston Bruins. Key player William Eklund is currently dealing with a lower-body injury. Although he was absent from yesterday’s practice, Eklund asserts that he intends to play. However, Sharks head coach Ryan Warsofsky has classified him as a game-time decision.
Eklund’s Status and the Need for Replacements
To cover for Eklund’s uncertain status, the Sharks have recalled top prospect Igor Chernyshov. Chernyshov is en route to the game, but his arrival timing remains uncertain. This creates a potential dilemma as the Sharks already roster 14 NHL-caliber forwards, making it challenging to allocate playing time.
- William Eklund: Lower-body injury, game-time decision.
- Igor Chernyshov: Recalled to the Sharks, timing of arrival unknown.
- Pavol Regenda: Limited playing time amid roster constraints.
Askarov’s Minor Injury Concern
In addition to Eklund’s injury, goaltender Yaroslav Askarov experienced a minor lower-body issue while warming up for morning skate. Although expected to start the game, Alex Nedeljkovic may need to take on additional responsibilities if Askarov cannot serve as the backup.
The Sharks might consider recalling a goaltender from the Barracuda or utilizing an emergency backup (EBUG) if necessary. Laurent Brossoit and Gabriel Carriere, who recently competed with the Barracuda, dressed last night, showcasing Brossoit’s solid performance by stopping 33 of 34 shots in a 4-1 victory.
Sharks Lineup and Game Details
As for the Sharks’ lineup, here are the lines from morning practice:
| Forward Lines |
|---|
| Graf – Celebrini – Smith |
| Gaudette – Wennberg – Sherwood |
| Eklund – Misa – Toffoli |
| Goodrow – Ostapchuk – Reaves |
| Defense Pairings |
|---|
| Orlov – Klingberg |
| Ferraro – Mukhamadullin |
| Dickinson – Desharnais |
Power Play Units:
- PP1: Orlov, Toffoli, Celebrini, Smith, Wennberg
- PP2: Klingberg, Eklund, Gaudette, Sherwood, Misa
Tonight’s game against the Boston Bruins (36-22-6) will commence at 4 PM PT at TD Garden. Viewers can catch the action live on NBC Sports California or listen via the Sharks Audio Network.
Notes on Bruins
In other news, Bruins’ forward David Pastrnak and his wife Rebecca recently welcomed a baby girl. Despite his absence from morning skate, Pastrnak is expected to play tonight.
