Sharks 'going to take another step' this season, Misa says
San Jose Sharks center Michael Misa expects the team to take a significant leap forward during the 2026-27 NHL season. Misa points to the core group of young talent as a primary driver for this optimism. The roster features stars like Macklin Celebrini, who recorded 115 points last season, and Will Smith, who hit career highs across the board.
General manager Mike Grier focused on balancing this youth movement by acquiring veteran experience during the offseason. The arrival of defenseman Darnell Nurse from Edmonton and unrestricted free agent Jacob Trouba provides stability on the blue line. These additions aim to support a group that finished just outside the playoffs last year.
The team also injected more young talent into the pipeline through the 2026 draft. Ivar Stenberg, selected second overall, joins a squad that already includes developing contributors like Sam Dickinson. The combination of established veterans and emerging prospects creates a competitive internal environment as the team prepares for its home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 1.
Training sessions in Vancouver between teammates suggest a high level of chemistry is already forming. Misa highlighted that the team remains hungry and focused on breaking the franchise's postseason drought. With a mix of offensive firepower and improved defensive depth, the organization looks prepared for the upcoming campaign.