As the San Jose Sharks gear up for their season opener against the Vegas Golden Knights on October 9th, the team's final roster decisions have sparked debate about whether they could have embraced an even younger lineup. While the Sharks have included four players aged 20 or younger, some argue that leaning further into the youth movement would have been beneficial for the team's present and future.
General Manager Mike Grier announced the 23-man roster, featuring notable rookies Michael Misa and Sam Dickinson. These additions underscore the organization's commitment to developing young talent. Misa, the second overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, and Dickinson, selected 11th overall in 2024, have impressed with their maturity and skill, earning them spots on the roster. Goaltender Yaroslav Askarov, acquired in a trade with the Nashville Predators in 2024, is also expected to be a key part of the team's future.
However, the Sharks' decision to send down prospects like Ethan Cardwell, Luca Cagnoni, and Zack Ostapchuk to the San Jose Barracuda raises questions about whether the team could have gone even younger. These players had strong training camps, and some argue that their inclusion in the opening night roster would have provided immediate benefits and long-term growth opportunities. Luca Cagnoni, in particular, has been a standout defenseman in the AHL, showcasing his puck-moving abilities and power-play expertise.
The argument for a younger roster stems from the belief that the Sharks are in a rebuilding phase and should prioritize the development of their prospects. Giving these young players NHL experience, even if it comes with some growing pains, would allow the coaching staff to assess their strengths and weaknesses, determine optimal line combinations, and accelerate their progress.
Moreover, a youth-focused approach could inject more energy and enthusiasm into the team. Rookies like Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith demonstrated last season that young players can make an immediate impact, and Misa and Dickinson have the potential to follow in their footsteps. By surrounding these young talents with experienced veterans, the Sharks can create a supportive environment for their development while also improving the team's overall competitiveness.
Of course, there are also valid reasons for the Sharks' more cautious approach. Balancing youth with experience is crucial for maintaining a competitive team and providing leadership in the locker room. Veterans like Barclay Goodrow, Nick Leddy, and Ryan Reaves can provide guidance and stability to the younger players, helping them navigate the challenges of the NHL.
Ultimately, the Sharks' opening night roster represents a compromise between youth and experience. While some may argue that they could have gone even younger, the team's management has chosen a path that they believe will best serve the organization's long-term interests. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the rookies perform and whether the Sharks make any further adjustments to their roster to incorporate more young talent. The Sharks are aiming to build a team poised for future success, and their approach to incorporating youth this season will be a key factor in determining whether they can achieve that goal.
