The San Jose Sharks have recalled top defensive prospect Shakir Mukhamadullin for the first time.

The San Jose Sharks have recalled top defensive prospect Shakir Mukhamadullin for the first time. 

"I'm so excited," Mukhamadullin told members of the Sharks media. "Just looking forward to keep working."

Mukhamadullin was acquired from the New Jersey Devils as part of the Timo Meier deal.

In 39 games for the San Jose Barracuda this season, the defenseman has 26 points (5 goals, 21 assists), which is tied for 10th in the league among points by defensemen.

"I like how my season is going," Mukhamadullin said. "I've been working with the AHL coach. I'm happy to play here."

Mukahamadullin had a powerplay assist in the 'Cuda's come-from-behind 5-3 win over the Bakersfield Condors last night.

The 6'4 defenseman is a smooth skater with skills that can help this Sharks team with puck movement during Mario Ferraro's absence. He has a calming presence with the puck on his stick, and his reach allows him to be a strong defender. 

His ability to get a shot on net from the point is a skill the Sharks lost when they sent Erik Karlsson to the Pittsburgh Penguins. They haven't had a player with his size and skating ability since Brent Burns. Mukhamadullin is a different player than Burns, but the skill set to be an upper-echelon NHL defenseman is there. 

"There's a lot that excites me. His size. His fluid skating. His passing. There's a lot to like about him," Sharks coach David Quinn said about Mukhamadullin. "I think playing [in North America] and getting adjusted to the style of hockey certainly takes a little time. He's gotten better and better. His confidence has grown as the season has gone on, which has allowed him to be a more productive player offensively."

Mukhamadullin's English is still improving. He is good friends with Nikita Okhotiuk and has relied on him for help in a lot of ways.

"It's fun. I called him right away when I got the news," Mukahamadullin said. 

"I told Nikita to concentrate on Nikita," Quinn laughed. "I joked with him that he has a new job now that [Mukhamadullin is] here. They're friends, and he can help along the way from a language standpoint."

Mukhamadullin participated in his first practice today. There were no official line rushes, so it is unclear who he might play with if he gets into a game. Quinn didn't rule out him playing with Jan Rutta. The Sharks have tended to put a young defenseman with Rutta like Henry Thrun and Okhotuik earlier in the season. 

The Sharks take on the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday, and Quinn said he will confirm if Mukhamadullin will play tomorrow. 

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