A regulation win! But at what cost?

It finally happened, the San Jose Sharks finally won in regulation. And what a win it was!  Defeating the Ottawa Senators 6-2 to close out the Canadian roadtrip, there was a lot to celebrate with this game.  However, it unfortunately came with the loss of Igor Chernyshov.  After blocking a shot early in the game, Chernyshov left the ice and he is unlikely to return any time soon.

This is a major blow to the Sharks, as Chernyshov fits perfectly on the top line with Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith. While Smith showed he bulked up quite a bit this offseason when he was filling in at center for an injured Celebrini, he’s still a more finesse player and Chernyshov significantly makes up for the lack of bulk.  His ability to use his size to create space and drive the play forward will be deeply missed in the coming weeks.

Now the question stands: who fills in for Chernyshov on that top line?  Collin Graf, who had an incredible game last night, filled in on the line after Chernyshov went down.  Graf was playing on the line last year and looks good in the spot, especially considering his defensive abilities.  Another interesting option is 19-year-old rookie Ivar Stenberg, who plays spectacularly with Celebrini on the powerplay.  

The next question is who takes Chernyshov’s spot on the actual roster.  Adam Gaudette is certainly an option, and he practiced as an extra forward yesterday prior to the game.  Plus Head Coach, Ryan Warsofsky, seems to have an affinity towards him (and Ty Dellandrea).  Considering Warsofsky’s appreciation for him and him getting reps in with the team, it’s probably likely the spot goes to Gaudette.  Gaudette’s devotion to San Jose is also worth noting.  Despite him not playing so far this season, he has explicitly expressed interest in staying with the team.  However, there is always the option to call up a player.  

This could be a great opportunity to call up Filip Bystedt from the San Jose Barracuda. Bystedt is having a fantastic season so far with 6 points (4G, 2A) in as many games.  His 4 goals is tied for first on the team and his 6 points is tied for third.  Bystedt was promising in the preseason and is seemingly ready to make the jump to the NHL.  With the opening in the roster, it seems it might be appropriate to give Bystedt a chance.    

Igor Chernyshov being out long term is a devastating blow to the Sharks roster, especially for the added bulk he provides the top line.  While this could be a fun chance to add Ivar Stenberg to the top unit for some high-octane offense, it might be better to spread the wealth.  Plus, Collin Graf’s perfected two-way abilities fit well on that top unit.   Although this could be a great opportunity to give Filip Bystedt some NHL reps, like he deserves, it’s probably more likely Ryan Warsofsky keeps Ty Dellandrea in the lineup and gives the open spot to Adam Gaudette.  At the end of the day, one can only hope Chernyshov comes back soon.