Sharks Searching for First Victory
The San Jose Sharks are still seeking their first win of the young NHL season as they prepare to take on the Utah Mammoth. The Sharks have managed to eke out a pair of points through their first three games, but have yet to notch a victory, opening the season with a 0-1-2 record.
San Jose is hoping to turn things around against the Mammoth, a fellow Pacific Division opponent. The Sharks' Stanley Cup aspirations remain intact, but they'll need to start stacking up wins soon if they want to keep pace in a highly competitive Pacific group.
Nedeljkovic Looks to Stabilize Goaltending
Offseason acquisition Alex Nedeljkovic will look to provide a steadying presence in net for the Sharks. The 27-year-old netminder has split time with Kaapo Kahkonen so far, but the Sharks will likely lean more heavily on Nedeljkovic as they search for their first win.
Nedeljkovic has posted a 3.53 goals-against average and .885 save percentage through his first three appearances. The Sharks are hoping he can regain the form that saw him win the Calder Trophy as the NHL's rookie of the year in 2021.
Celebrini Debuts with Sharks
Highly touted prospect Macklin Celebrini made his NHL debut for the Sharks in their most recent game. The 19-year-old forward was the team's first-round pick in the 2023 draft and is expected to be a key part of the Sharks' future.
While Celebrini is still adjusting to the pro game, his presence provides a glimpse of the talent the Sharks have in the pipeline. If the team's veterans can guide the youngster through his early-career growing pains, Celebrini could be a valuable asset down the stretch.
TL;DR
- The San Jose Sharks are still searching for their first win of the season, sitting at 0-1-2 through their first three games.
- Offseason acquisition Alex Nedeljkovic will look to stabilize the Sharks' goaltending as they try to climb the Pacific Division standings.
- Rookie forward Macklin Celebrini made his NHL debut for the Sharks, providing a glimpse of the team's promising future.