Sharks Lose Key Center Wennberg to Upper-Body Injury

Philipp Kurashev steps in to fill the void as San Jose faces Ottawa Senators

Mar. 16, 2026 at 1:08am

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The San Jose Sharks will be without center Alexander Wennberg for tonight's game against the Ottawa Senators due to an upper-body injury sustained in Saturday's win over the Montreal Canadiens. Wennberg, the Sharks' second-leading scorer, is a vital part of their offense and special teams. Philipp Kurashev will take Wennberg's place in the lineup, providing the team with valuable depth as they navigate the injury.

Why it matters

Wennberg's absence is a significant blow to the Sharks, who rely heavily on his two-way play and offensive production. His injury timing is also concerning, as he recently signed a contract extension, signaling his long-term importance to the franchise. The team's ability to adapt and have Kurashev step up will be crucial as they aim to maintain their position in the playoff race.

The details

Wennberg was injured during Saturday's game against the Canadiens, though the exact nature of the injury remains unclear. He is the Sharks' second-leading scorer with 43 points (13 goals, 30 assists) and averages over 20 minutes of ice time per game, including key roles on the power play and penalty kill. Kurashev, an Olympian, will now center the second line with Pavol Regenda and Kiefer Sherwood, providing the Sharks with a capable replacement as they aim to maintain their offensive production without Wennberg.

  • Wennberg was injured during Saturday's 4-2 win over the Montreal Canadiens.
  • The Sharks do not practice on Monday, so an update on Wennberg's status is not expected until Tuesday.

The players

Alexander Wennberg

A key center for the San Jose Sharks, Wennberg is the team's second-leading scorer with 43 points this season.

Philipp Kurashev

An Olympian who will step into Wennberg's role, centering the second line for the Sharks.

Ryan Warsofsky

The head coach of the San Jose Sharks, who highlighted the team's improved depth in being able to call on a player like Kurashev to fill such an important role.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Sharks do not practice on Monday, so an update on Wennberg's status is not expected until Tuesday.

The takeaway

Wennberg's injury is a significant blow to the Sharks, who rely heavily on his two-way play and offensive production. However, the team's depth, exemplified by Kurashev's ability to step up, will be crucial as they aim to maintain their position in the playoff race without their second-leading scorer.