The San Jose Sharks recalled Shakir Mukhamadullin on Thursday, and he will make his NHL debut against the Buffalo Sabres today.
The San Jose Sharks recalled Shakir Mukhamadullin on Thursday, and he will make his NHL debut against the Buffalo Sabres today.
The San Jose Sharks recalled Shakir Mukhamadullin on Thursday, and he will make his NHL debut against the Buffalo Sabres today.
The 22-year-old Russian defenseman stands at 6'4 and weighs 190 lbs. He is an incredibly smooth skater for a player of his size. He was acquired from the New Jersey Devils in return for Timo Meier. Fabian Zetterlund has been a terrific pickup from that deal, and Mukhamadullin's debut today only makes Mike Grier's trade that much better.
"It's an exciting time for him. I told him not to be nervous, but he's going to be nervous, right? Who isn't gonna be nervous the first time they play in the National Hockey League," Quinn said. "I think after the first few shifts, guys usually settle down."
As for what Quinn is excited about:
He's impressive. He plays at a pace [but] there's a balance," Quinn explained. "He's got a mental composure to him when his body is moving fast, which is hard to do. I'm excited for him and excited for us."
Mukhamadullin has been a calming presence on the blueline for the AHL San Jose Barracuda. In 39 games, Mukhamadullin has five goals and 21 assists. Among all AHL defensemen, he ranks 6th in assists and 10th in points.
He will be paired with Jan Rutta on defense and quarterback the second powerplay unit for the Sharks.
His opportunity comes at a cost. Henry Thrun has been placed on IR, and Mario Ferraro is out with a lower-body injury.
"It was something we anticipated that he could do with the young defensemen we had in our organization. We just weren't sure who was going to be here and who wasn't," Quinn said about Rutta's role. "The way our season has gone, and with injuries and the way our young guys have played their way into our lineup, it's just morphed into that."
Quinn wants 'Shak' to remain as calm as possible and play the way he has been to earn this opportunity.
"Just relax and enjoy the opportunity," Quinn said about what he wants from the young defenseman. "He's earned it. Just do all the things that he's done that got him here."
Mukhamadullin's ability to get his shot through to the point should create more opportunities for offense. He can walk the line to change the angle. The young defenseman has said he enjoys the offensive side of the game.
Expect Quinn to throw Mukhamadullin right into the fire. The Russian has shown no issues playing in big moments and thrives when he is relied upon. His calmness should allow him to be successful in today's game.
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