"SAN JOSE Sharks owner Hasso Plattner had a direct answer this week when it came to what he expects from his team this season. I hope we don't have to go for McKenna, Plattner said Thursday of Penn State forward Gavin McKenna, thought to be the best player available in next year's NHL Draft. I just talked to (coach Ryan Warsofsky), No McKenna here now,' and (general manager) Mike (Grier) said, Absolutely not, absolutely not.'"
"After finishing at the bottom of the league standings the last two years and having the best odds to win the NHL Draft Lottery, the Sharks know they need to take a step forward this season in what is Grier's fourth year as the team's head of hockey operations. No one, perhaps even inside the organization, thinks the Sharks have a realistic chance of making the playoffs for the first time since 2019, especially after a 20-50-12 season."
Hasso Plattner expects the Sharks to avoid drafting Gavin McKenna, signaling a desire to improve rather than seek top lottery picks. General manager Mike Grier and coach Ryan Warsofsky opposed pursuing McKenna. The Sharks finished last in the league two straight seasons and hold top odds in the draft lottery, creating pressure to take a step forward in Grier's fourth year. The team lacks a realistic chance at the 2024-25 playoffs but needs growth from players 23 and younger to position for 2026-27. Mario Ferraro said the team owes fans a good season. The Sharks lost their opener 4-3 in overtime after late-game miscues.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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