The San Jose Sharks had another disappointing campaign in the 2024-25 NHL season, finishing with a 20-50-12 record. They ranked eighth in the Pacific Division and missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the sixth straight year. Despite a strong rookie showing by Macklin Celebrini, team development and consistency remained elusive, leaving fans hoping that a revamped roster and emerging prospects can reverse the franchise’s fortunes.
Sharks Add Veterans on Defense and Offense to Support Emerging Young Core Players
San Jose was busy in free agency and the trade market, especially on defense. Dmitry Orlov was brought in on a two-year deal to be the top defenseman, and, coming off hip surgery, was signed for a year to provide a veteran right-shot presence. Goaltending saw a shake-up with the acquisition of Alex Nedeljkovic from Pittsburgh, expected to split duties with top prospect Yaroslav Askarov.
The Sharks also added several veteran forwards to support their young core. Jeff Skinner signed a one-year deal and could see top-six minutes, while Ryan Reaves, acquired in a trade, will add grit and toughness. Adam Gaudette and Philipp Kurashev were also signed, both capable of filling out the middle six. These additions aim to offer leadership and balance to a team loaded with youth.
John Klingberg (NHL)Youth Movement Begins as Sharks Transition to Future with Bold Roster and Prospect Shifts
San Jose parted ways with some familiar names and prospects. Most notably, veteran Marc-Edouard Vlasic was bought out after a 19-year career in teal. Henry Thrun was dealt to Toronto in exchange for Reaves, while Nikolai Kovalenko was not tendered a qualifying offer and signed in the KHL. These changes signify a full commitment to rebuilding and turning the roster over to younger talent.
Several young players are pushing for NHL roles. Defenseman Sam Dickinson, fresh off being named OHL defenseman of the year, could crack the opening night lineup. Goalie Yaroslav Askarov is poised to become a full-time NHL starter, while Michael Misa, the No. 2 overall pick in 2025, is projected to center the second line if signed. These prospects are expected to form the backbone of San Jose’s long-term rebuild.
Improving internal development is crucial. The team’s success hinges on the growth of Celebrini, Will Smith, and William Eklund. Celebrini, a Calder Trophy finalist, ranked highly in several EDGE metrics and is central to San Jose’s plans. In fantasy hockey, San Jose boasts six players under 23 in the top 100 keeper rankings, with Celebrini, Smith, and Misa all in the top 20. If Misa signs and debuts, he could be a Calder contender and top-100 fantasy option.
Key Arrivals Table
| Player | Position | Age | Transaction Type | Previous Team | 2023-24 Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dmitry Orlov | D | 34 | Signed (2-year contract) | Carolina Hurricanes | 28 pts in 76 games |
| John Klingberg | D | 32 | Signed (1-year contract) | Edmonton Oilers | 4 pts in 11 games |
| Alex Nedeljkovic | G | 29 | Traded from PIT (3rd-round pick) | Pittsburgh Penguins | 14-15-5, 3.12 GAA, .894 SV% in 38 games |
| Jeff Skinner | F | 33 | Signed (1-year contract) | Edmonton Oilers | 29 pts in 72 games |
| Nick Leddy | D | 33 | Claimed off waivers | St. Louis Blues | 5 pts in 31 games |
| Adam Gaudette | F | 28 | Signed (2-year contract) | Ottawa Senators | 26 pts in 81 games |
| Philipp Kurashev | F | 25 | Signed (1-year contract) | Chicago Blackhawks | 14 pts in 51 games |
| Ryan Reaves | F | 38 | Traded from TOR | Toronto Maple Leafs | 2 assists, 28 PIM in 35 games |
