Sharks Look to Rebound as Mukhamadullin Returns Against Leafs

The San Jose Sharks are set to face the Toronto Maple Leafs on December 7, 2023, at Scotiabank Arena, with significant roster changes aimed at reversing their recent struggles. Goalie Alex Nedeljkovic is starting his third consecutive game, while defenseman Shakir Mukhamadullin makes his return after a ten-day absence.

Nedeljkovic took the net for the Sharks against the Philadelphia Flyers on December 5, stepping in when Yaroslav Askarov fell ill. In that match, Nedeljkovic managed to stop 26 of 29 shots, but the Sharks lost 4-1. Askarov traveled from Philadelphia to Toronto and will serve as Nedeljkovic’s backup as the team aims to avoid their fourth loss in five games. This season, Nedeljkovic holds a record of 4-6-2 and a save percentage of .899. Askarov could start in the Sharks’ upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on December 10, 2023.

Mukhamadullin has not played since December 1, when the Sharks secured a 6-3 victory over the Utah Mammoth. Although he was close to returning on December 5, he was ultimately scratched, as teammate Timothy Liljegren played despite a lower-body injury. In Wednesday’s practice, Mukhamadullin was paired with Mario Ferraro. This season, he has recorded one goal and four assists in 14 games, averaging 16:29 of ice time primarily in a second or third defense pair role.

Thrun Debuts with the Maple Leafs

The Maple Leafs are welcoming former Sharks defenseman Henry Thrun, who is set to make his debut with Toronto against his former team. Thrun commented on the opportunity, stating, “You always do [want to prove something], but I’m more just worried about myself and playing my game.”

Thrun was traded to the Leafs in July 2023 in exchange for forward Ryan Reaves. After being placed on waivers in October, he was assigned to the Toronto Marlies of the AHL, where he accumulated nine points in 19 games. His recent recall comes at a crucial time for the Leafs, who are managing injuries to defensemen Brandon Carlo, Chris Tanev, and Dakota Mermis. Thrun expressed excitement about returning to the NHL, emphasizing the significance of representing a team in such a prominent hockey market.

Reaves Reflects on Departure from Toronto

Reaves, who now plays for the Sharks, addressed reporters about his departure from the Maple Leafs in July. He reflected, “They basically said that I couldn’t play in this league anymore. And I’m back.” Now in the second year of a three-year, $4.05 million contract, Reaves faced challenges last season, being a healthy scratch in 15 of the first 42 games. He played in only 35 of 62 games before being placed on waivers.

“I think throughout the year, not just that situation, there were other situations that could have been handled differently,” said Reaves. He noted that he appreciated the honesty and communication that could have improved his experience. Despite the difficulties, Reaves expressed satisfaction with his current situation in San Jose, stating, “I ended up in a great organization, and I’m having a great time playing here.”

The dynamic continues as both teams seek to establish momentum. With Mukhamadullin’s return and Thrun’s debut, the matchup promises to be an intriguing encounter in the NHL landscape. As Reaves prepares to face his former team, he emphasized the importance of these games, stating, “It’s always fun playing against your buddies, and you never want to lose against them.”

As the Sharks and Maple Leafs take the ice, both teams will be keenly aware of the implications of this match on their standings, making for a compelling showdown.