New-look Sharks have set new-look goals: ‘No reason that we shouldn’t make the playoffs’

The San Jose Sharks are preparing to open their NHL season against the Florida Panthers on October 1 with renewed playoff expectations. Following a 34-point improvement in the standings last season and multiple high draft picks under general manager Mike Grier, players including Mason Marchment and Will Smith expressed strong optimism about reaching the postseason.

Star center Macklin Celebrini, who signed a five-year, $94 million extension starting in 2027-28, headlines the young roster after nearly leading the team to the playoffs. While players have embraced postseason goals, third-year head coach Ryan Warsofsky and general manager Grier maintained a cautious approach focused on daily team improvement.