Klingberg and Skinner Return; Giles Recalled for Impact
John Klingberg and Jeff Skinner will make their much-anticipated return to the San Jose Sharks. Klingberg has been sidelined since October 14 due to a lower-body injury but is now set to rejoin the top power-play unit. While specific details about his injury have not been disclosed, both Klingberg and head coach Ryan Warsofsky confirmed it is not related to his persistent hip issues.
Skinner’s absence was unexpected, as he was a healthy scratch during the last game against the Minnesota Wild. Following that game, Warsofsky emphasized the need for the team to improve in winning battles for the puck. “We got to win some more pucks. That’s not just him. That’s our whole group,” he noted. Skinner echoed this sentiment, stating, “You want to try and win as many battles as you can.”
Player Updates and Roster Changes
The San Jose Sharks, currently holding a record of 2-5-2, will also see Yaroslav Askarov start in goal. In a related development, the Sharks have recalled forward Patrick Giles from the Barracuda. This move comes as defenseman Nick Leddy has been placed on injured reserve.
- Patrick Giles: A center who shoots right, Giles is expected to help on draws and provide size.
- Reason for Recall: Giles offers insurance for Adam Gaudette, who is dealing with an upper-body injury.
- Contract Impact: Michael Misa is approaching his 10th NHL game, which would impact his entry-level contract status.
Warsofsky has indicated that Giles may also strengthen the Sharks’ struggling penalty kill. Additionally, he reported that Mukhamadullin has returned to practice and assessed Leddy’s condition as potentially less severe than initially thought.
Upcoming Game Details
The Sharks are set to face the Los Angeles Kings, who currently stand at 4-3-3, at the SAP Center. Puck drop for this match will be at 8 PM PT, as part of a special Frozen Frenzy event. Fans can catch the game live on ESPN or listen through the Sharks Audio Network.
