Sharks Coach Doesn't See Point In A Mikael Granlund Return Before All-Star Break
San Jose Sharks injured forward Mikael Granlund hit the ice today for the first time since sustaining an upper-body against the Chicago Blackhawks.
Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports - Sharks Coach Doesn't See Point In A Mikael Granlund Return Before All-Star BreakSan Jose Sharks injured forward Mikael Granlund hit the ice today for the first time since sustaining an upper-body against the Chicago Blackhawks.
While it is deemed an upper-body injury, the suspect is his left shoulder. Head coach David Quinn said they avoided the worst, and surgery isn't needed.
"I think it was just testing out to see how he felt, and he said he felt pretty good," Quinn said about Granlund.
Granlund was moved to IR this week, and on Saturday, Quinn said he would miss the Sharks' next three games at minimum. When asked about a possible return, Quinn emphasized that getting extra rest due to the all-star break and NHL-mandated bye week is rare and should be used.
"In my mind, it makes no sense. You put him out there one game before the break, and all of a sudden, [he gets hurt again]," Quinn said. "He's got an opportunity to get three full weeks without missing many hockey games. You don't get that opportunity very often. So unless he's begging me and telling me hey, I'm 100% Fine. I don't see the point of it, but we're not there yet."
Granlund has been a critical contributor for the Sharks with five goals and 24 assists.
The Sharks have four games left until the all-star break, and when he does come back, Quinn will finally have a chance to get a full roster of forwards.
Granlund's timeline was said to be week-to-week, and while it looks like he will be out longer than expected, it will likely be just the next four games.
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