San Jose Sharks forward Ty Dellandrea has been more noticeable during games since the 4 Nations Face-Off break. 

The former first-round pick hasn't had a point since his return, but due to trades and injuries, he is now coach Ryan Warsofsky's third-line center.

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"When I get into the game physically, I think I'm kind of in that flow state, and I get to just playing hockey," Dellandrea told THN. "Just not thinking so much about what you're supposed to do and just playing. When I get physically involved in the game, I find I play my best hockey."

He's started to showcase his speed and work ethic, which made him a first-round pick for the Dallas Stars.

The fresh start Dellandrea wanted hasn't entirely gone as well as he'd hoped, but he knows what is at stake for the remainder of the season. 

"From my experience, the best way is just to go about your day as normal, not pay attention to [rumors]," Dellandrea said. "Just try to get better each day and play good hockey."

Dellandrea's name popped up in trade rumors from a report from Elliotte Friedman's 32 Thoughts before the March 7th deadline.

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Ryan Warsofsky has taken notice of his effort and wants to see him build on his momentum.

"He's definitely playing a lot better. The break was a good mental reset for him. [He's] playing center. Let's give him some runway here and see if he can do it in the National Hockey League," Warsofsky said. "It's a hard position to play, but I think he's got the skating ability to do it. I think he's been good here as of late. Again, [he's] another guy that has something to play for. As far as can he solidify that spot."

Dellandrea is skating on a line with Collin Graf and Nikolai Kovalenko.

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