Sharks Place Vincent Desharnais on IR, Recall Pavol Regenda

The San Jose Sharks have placed defenseman Vincent Desharnais on injured reserve and recalled winger Pavol Regenda from the AHL. This decision was made on Monday as part of roster adjustments.

Vincent Desharnais on Injured Reserve

Desharnais is sidelined due to an upper-body injury. His placement on injured reserve is retroactive to his last game on November 26. He skipped the last two matches and is not participating in tonight’s game against the Mammoth. However, he may be eligible for reinstatement before the Sharks face the Capitals on Wednesday.

At 29 years old, Desharnais is having a notable season in his four-year NHL career. Although he has only recorded two assists in 20 games, he has emerged as the Sharks’ second-best shutdown defender. His stats include:

• Plus/minus rating: +1
• Goals Against per 60 (GA/60) at 5-on-5: 2.12 (third best on the team)
• Shots Against per 60: 29.17 (sixth on the team)
• Expected Goals Against per 60: 2.45 (fourth on the team)
• Scoring Chances Against per 60: 25.17 (second on the team)

Desharnais has been pivotal on the Sharks’ top penalty kill and spends most of his time in a third-pairing role, supporting rookie Sam Dickinson. Together, they have the highest expected goals percentage (xGF%) at 5-on-5 at 56.9. His absence could significantly impact the team’s performance, particularly with San Jose struggling to a 4-5-0 record in their last nine outings.

Pavol Regenda’s Reinstatement

Pavol Regenda has been recalled to provide the Sharks with sufficient forward options for tonight’s matchup against Utah. If Adam Gaudette, who is reportedly ill, cannot play, Regenda may make his Sharks debut.

The 26-year-old winger was acquired from the Ducks last season in exchange for Justin Bailey. Since joining the Sharks, Regenda has played primarily in the AHL, amassing a scoring line of 12 goals and 20 assists in 55 games. This season, he has contributed seven points in 19 AHL games.

Standing 6’4″ and weighing 212 pounds, Regenda has 19 games of NHL experience with Anaheim, recording one goal and two assists. While he has not played in the NHL since March 2024, he adds a physical presence to the Sharks’ roster if required.