San Jose Sharks were among the most improved teams in the NHL last season, and Michael Misa expressed a belief that further advancement is within reach.
"I think we're building something pretty special," Misa said, per NHL.com's Mike Zeisberger. "I think you saw it a bit last year. We were right there for the playoffs. I think we're going to take another step this year."
The Sharks jumped from an NHL-worst 52 points in 2024-25 to 86 last season, finishing four points out of a playoff spot.
General manager Mike Grier bolstered the roster by adding forward Mason Marchment and defensemen Jacob Trouba, Darnell Nurse, and Michael Kesselring. The Sharks also made two top-10 picks in the 2026 draft in forward Ivar Stenberg (second overall) and defenseman Keaton Verhoeff (ninth overall), and they could compete for roster spots.
"I'm excited to get back," Misa said. "With all the new guys we've got coming in, just looking forward to (getting) started. Mike and his staff have done a great job of building something."
Internal development will also be crucial in order for San Jose to make the playoffs as one of the league's youngest teams. Misa, the 2025 second overall pick, is a potential breakout candidate after producing 21 points in 45 games as an 18-year-old rookie. If he pops in Year 2, he'll give the Sharks another young offensive weapon alongside Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith.
"We're young and we're hungry," Misa said.
