Sharks Recall Top Prospect Cagnoni to Boost Offense

Scouts weigh in on how the young defenseman can improve his defensive game at the NHL level.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:41am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey player in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of teal, navy, and gold colors representing the San Jose Sharks.The Sharks hope their top prospect Luca Cagnoni can provide a creative offensive spark to their struggling power play.San Jose Today

The San Jose Sharks have recalled 21-year-old defenseman Luca Cagnoni from their AHL affiliate, the San Jose Barracuda. Cagnoni is the Barracuda's top-scoring blueliner this season with 8 goals and 43 points in 67 games. Last year, he was named to the AHL All-Rookie Team after posting 16 goals and 52 points in 64 games. The Sharks are hoping Cagnoni can provide a boost to their struggling power play and playoff push.

Why it matters

The Sharks are currently on the outside of the Western Conference playoff picture, so the addition of their top defensive prospect Cagnoni could be a key move to try and spark the team's offense down the stretch. Cagnoni's offensive abilities from the back end could be a valuable asset for the Sharks as they look to make a late-season surge.

The details

Cagnoni, a 2023 fourth-round pick, made his NHL debut with the Sharks last season, recording two assists in six games. This year with the Barracuda, he has emerged as one of the top offensive defensemen in the AHL. The Sharks are hoping his skill set can translate to the NHL level and help improve their power play and overall scoring punch.

  • Cagnoni was recalled by the Sharks on April 13, 2026.
  • He is expected to suit up for the Sharks in their game against the Nashville Predators on April 14, 2026.

The players

Luca Cagnoni

A 21-year-old defenseman who is the top-scoring blueliner for the San Jose Barracuda in the AHL this season with 8 goals and 43 points in 67 games.

San Jose Sharks

An NHL team that has recalled Cagnoni from their AHL affiliate in an effort to boost their struggling offense and power play as they push for a playoff spot in the Western Conference.

San Jose Barracuda

The AHL affiliate of the San Jose Sharks, where Cagnoni has emerged as one of the top offensive defensemen in the league this season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Cagnoni is expected to make his NHL season debut with the Sharks when they take on the Nashville Predators on April 14, 2026.

The takeaway

The Sharks' decision to recall their top defensive prospect Luca Cagnoni from the AHL shows their desperation to find offensive firepower and improve their power play as they fight to stay in the Western Conference playoff race. Cagnoni's offensive abilities could provide a much-needed boost, but scouts have noted he needs to shore up his defensive game to truly thrive at the NHL level.