San Jose Sharks Face Pivotal Questions in Final Playoff Push

From Celebrini's MVP bid to Askarov's slump, the Sharks have critical issues to address in their late-season playoff chase.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:08pm

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With just five games remaining and a three-point deficit in the wild card race, the San Jose Sharks are in a precarious position as they stare down the barrel of their final playoff push. This situation has brought several critical questions to the forefront, including Macklin Celebrini's Hart Trophy candidacy, Yaroslav Askarov's recent struggles in net, the team's inconsistent penalty kill, and the need for secondary scoring to emerge.

Why it matters

The Sharks' playoff hopes hang in the balance, and the answers to these key questions will determine whether they can secure a postseason berth. Celebrini's individual brilliance has been undeniable, but his ability to lead the team to the playoffs could be the deciding factor in the MVP race. Askarov's slump has put added pressure on the defense, while the penalty kill and secondary scoring issues threaten to derail the team's late-season surge. Resolving these challenges will be crucial if the Sharks hope to extend their season.

The details

Celebrini is having a remarkable individual season, with 42 goals and 108 points, but his Hart Trophy aspirations may hinge on the Sharks' ability to reach the playoffs. Meanwhile, Askarov has struggled mightily since a strong November, posting a 12-12-2 record and a .870 save percentage in that stretch. The Sharks' penalty kill, which showed signs of improvement after the Olympic break, has recently regressed, surrendering nine power-play goals in their last six games. The team's secondary scoring has also been a concern, with Tyler Toffoli and Michael Misa going cold, and Igor Chernyshov less dangerous without the presence of Celebrini or Will Smith.

  • The Sharks have just five games remaining in the regular season.
  • They are currently three points out of a wild card spot.

The players

Macklin Celebrini

The Sharks' leading scorer with 42 goals and 108 points, and a leading candidate for the Hart Trophy as the league's MVP.

Yaroslav Askarov

The Sharks' young goaltender who has struggled since a strong November, posting a 12-12-2 record and a .870 save percentage in that stretch.

Tyler Toffoli

A Sharks forward who has gone 12 games without a goal, contributing to the team's lack of secondary scoring.

Michael Misa

A Sharks forward who has recorded just one assist in his last 12 games, further exacerbating the team's secondary scoring issues.

Igor Chernyshov

A Sharks forward who has been less dangerous without the presence of Celebrini or Will Smith, highlighting the team's need for more consistent secondary scoring.

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What’s next

The Sharks' coaching staff has indicated they may make line changes after a recent loss to the Oilers, as they look to find solutions to their secondary scoring issues and improve their penalty kill performance.

The takeaway

The San Jose Sharks are facing a critical juncture in their season, with several key questions that will determine whether they can secure a playoff spot. From Celebrini's MVP candidacy to Askarov's slump, the penalty kill struggles, and the need for secondary scoring, the Sharks must find answers to these pressing issues if they hope to extend their season beyond the regular-season finale.