The San Jose Sharks are facing a familiar problem early in the 2025-26 NHL season: defensive struggles. Despite scoring a respectable 2.67 goals per game, the Sharks are allowing a league-worst 4.83 goals per game. This imbalance has led to an 0-4-2 start, continuing a trend of historically poor starts for the team over the past four seasons. To address this issue, the Sharks need to find a defenseman who can provide the same stability and leadership that Tyler Toffoli brings to the forward group.
Toffoli's Impact on the Sharks
Tyler Toffoli, signed in the 2024 offseason, has been a key addition to the Sharks. His goal-scoring ability and veteran leadership have provided a boost to the offense. In the 2024-25 season, Toffoli scored 30 goals, contributing to the team's increased offensive output. Beyond his on-ice performance, Toffoli has taken on a mentorship role, working with the team's young forwards, including Macklin Celebrini, Will Smith, William Eklund, and Collin Graf. His presence has helped these young players develop and improve their game.
The Need for Defensive Leadership
The Sharks' defense has been a consistent area of concern. Last season, they allowed 3.78 goals per game, ranking among the worst in the league. The team's defensive struggles have continued into the current season, with the Sharks allowing nearly five goals per game. To improve defensively, the Sharks need to establish a solid defensive core, starting with veteran leadership. General Manager Mike Grier has acknowledged the need to address the defensive issues and is reportedly willing to trade a defenseman to improve the team's balance.
Potential Solutions and Challenges
Finding a defenseman who can replicate Toffoli's impact will not be easy. The Sharks need a player who can provide stability, leadership, and on-ice performance. Several veteran defensemen have been brought in, including Dmitry Orlov, John Klingberg, Nick Leddy and Vincent Iorio, but it remains to be seen if they can provide the needed impact.
One challenge the Sharks face is the performance of their goaltenders. Yaroslav Askarov, the team's goalie of the future, is expected to take on a larger role this season. However, he has limited NHL experience, and the Sharks need to balance giving him opportunities to develop with protecting him from excessive pressure. The team also signed veteran Alex Nedeljkovic, who will likely share time in net with Askarov.
Current Defensive Roster
Currently, the Sharks have a crowded blue line, with several defensemen competing for roster spots. Recent transactions include claiming Vincent Iorio off waivers and calling up Luca Cagnoni from the AHL. However, Cagnoni was later reassigned to the AHL, signaling that John Klingberg is nearing a return from injury. Other defensemen on the roster include Mario Ferraro, who has been the team's top defender for several years, and Jack Thompson and Shakir Mukhamadullin, who are looking to establish themselves as full-time NHL players.
Moving Forward
The San Jose Sharks are in a rebuilding phase, with a focus on developing young talent and improving their overall team performance. Addressing the defensive issues is crucial for the team to take the next step in their rebuild. Finding a defenseman who can provide the same leadership and stability as Tyler Toffoli is essential for the Sharks to turn their defensive struggles around and compete for a playoff spot in the future.
