Sharks’ Sam Dickinson Sparks Roster Dilemma Ahead of Islanders Clash

SAN JOSE – As the San Jose Sharks prepare for their upcoming matchup against the New York Islanders, rookie defenseman Sam Dickinson is raising questions about roster decisions. Dickinson’s performance has prompted speculation about whether he will remain with the team for the entire season and how that could affect the current lineup.

The Sharks enter this crucial game with eight defensemen on the active roster. This follows the recall of Luca Cagnoni from the Barracuda and the placement of Shakir Mukhamadullin on injured reserve. Injured defensemen John Klingberg and Timothy Liljegren traveled with the team; however, Liljegren is ineligible to return from IR until after the game, while Klingberg has been limited in practice due to a lower body injury.

With the potential for all defensemen to return to health, the Sharks face a challenging decision. Options include sending Cagnoni back to the American Hockey League (AHL) or placing Vincent Iorio on waivers, despite the team’s belief in his future as an NHL player. Alternatively, the Sharks may opt to trade a defenseman, particularly one with an expiring contract, to alleviate the roster congestion. Players such as Mario Ferraro, Nick Leddy, Vincent Desharnais, Klingberg, and Liljegren are all set to become unrestricted free agents next summer.

Returning Dickinson to the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) seems increasingly unlikely. The 19-year-old has seen his ice time and responsibilities rise, culminating in a career-high of 16:48 minutes against the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he faced off against established stars like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin.

“Never thought that day would come,” Dickinson remarked about defending such elite players. “They are obviously some of the best players of all time, so just kind of get out there, get in good position, and hope they don’t dance me.”

Through four games this season, Dickinson has proven he can compete at the NHL level. The Sharks can keep him for five more games before needing to decide on his future with the team. His performance in London last season, where he won the Memorial Cup and was named the Canadian Hockey League’s Defenseman of the Year, adds to the argument for his continued tenure in San Jose.

Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky praised Dickinson and teammate Michael Misa for their recent performances, stating, “I’d say (it was) two of their best games. Did some good things. Obviously, some things to improve on, but they look more comfortable.”

Dickinson acknowledged the speed of the game and the necessity of quick decision-making. “The big ones are just speeding up my thought process, understanding how fast I need to make decisions,” he explained.

In a recent game, Dickinson demonstrated his offensive potential. As Sharks forward Barclay Goodrow gained possession of the puck, Dickinson recognized an opportunity to create an odd-man rush and surged up the ice. Although Goodrow’s shot was saved, it illustrated Dickinson’s instinctive approach to the game.

“I think my shot from the point is a strength of mine and can create a lot of offense for our team,” he noted. “When the chances were there, just let ‘er rip, and typically, good things happen.”

As the Sharks prepare to face the Islanders, they will also encounter the first overall pick from the recent NHL draft, Matthew Schaefer. If Misa plays, it will showcase the top two picks from June’s draft. Misa has participated in two games so far, averaging about 14 minutes of ice time. He is expected to center the Sharks’ third line, providing further opportunities for growth.

Schaefer has made an immediate impact with the Islanders, recording a five-game point streak to start his career. Should he score again, he will tie Marek Zidlicky for the longest streak to begin a defenseman’s NHL career.

The matchup against the Islanders on October 24, 2023, will not only test the Sharks’ roster dynamics but also provide a platform for promising young talent to shine. As the season progresses, the decisions surrounding Dickinson, Misa, and the team’s defense will significantly influence the Sharks’ path forward.