San Jose Sharks owner Hasso Plattner recently addressed the media, offering candid insights into the team's past, present, and future. In a rare public appearance, Plattner reflected on the Sharks' rebuild, his perspective on former star defenseman Erik Karlsson, and his optimism about the team's emerging young talent.
Addressing the tenure of Erik Karlsson, now with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Plattner suggested some regrets about Karlsson's time with the Sharks. While acknowledging Karlsson's skill, Plattner stated, "He was not the most team-friendly player. He was good, but he was probably very good in a very good team". He added that "It was not the right environment" for Karlsson to thrive in San Jose. The Sharks traded Karlsson to the Pittsburgh Penguins in a three-team deal that also included the Montreal Canadiens. In the previous season, Karlsson became the sixth defenseman in NHL history to reach 100 points, earning his third Norris Trophy.
Plattner emphasized that the decision to rebuild in 2022 was a necessary long-term strategy. He noted the departure of key players like Brent Burns, Tomas Hertl, and Joe Pavelski, as well as Logan Couture's injury, making it impossible to "rescue the team". He admitted some regret over letting Hertl go, describing him as a "good guy" who always had a smile. Plattner also expressed regret over letting Joe Pavelski walk and not drafting Tim Stutzle.
Looking ahead, Plattner voiced confidence in the current management and the team's burgeoning young talent. He specifically praised Macklin Celebrini, the first overall pick in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, and other prospects like Will Smith and Michael Misa. He believes the Sharks are on an upward trajectory, potentially exceeding the success of previous Sharks teams. Plattner highlighted the improved play of William Eklund and Will Smith in the past year. He anticipates the team will be close to playoff contention next year, with Sam Dickinson fully engaged and Michael Misa approaching Celebrini's level.
Plattner commended general manager Mike Grier's systematic approach and drafting skills, a departure from the Doug Wilson era. He noted that Grier's team is drafting better and avoiding the wasted high draft picks of the past. He believes the team is drafting better, and that the team works together and doesn't play for show.
Several prospects are expected to make an impact in the coming years. Macklin Celebrini is considered the best prospect in the NHL and is expected to be a perennial 30-goal scorer. Will Smith has top-line potential, and Sam Dickinson is projected to be a top defenseman. Goaltender Yaroslav Askarov is also expected to take on a full-time NHL role soon. Michael Misa was drafted second overall in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft.
While Plattner doesn't expect the Sharks to make the playoffs this year, he anticipates they will be close next year. He also affirmed that financial flexibility won't be an issue with the rising salary cap.
The Sharks have begun to focus on achieving results after a six-year rebuild. After finishing with the worst record in the NHL for the past two seasons, the team is aiming to improve, led by young players like Celebrini and Smith, along with veteran additions. William Eklund emphasized the need for everyone to buy into becoming a competitive and winning team.
