There are just 83 days remaining until the San Jose Sharks start their season against the Vegas Golden Knights. [http://thn.com/vegas] The number 83 has only been worn by two players in the organization’s history, but it’s seen a considerable amount of ice time over the years. Matt Nieto was the first Shark to wear the number, making his debut during the 2013-14 season. He’d eventually have two stints with the team in teal, playing his final game with the organization during the 2022-23 season. In 364 career games with the Sharks, the current unrestricted free agent recorded 47 goals and 109 points while averaging just over 14 minutes of ice time per night. After Nieto departed the Sharks, it wouldn’t take long for the number to be reused. Defenseman Nikita Okhotiuk used it for 43 games during the 2023-24 season before he was traded to the Calgary Flames. [http://thn.com/calgary] At the end of that season, he returned to Russia, where he currently plays for CSKA Moscow in the Kontinental Hockey League. While it’s clear Matt Nieto has the most impressive resume in the number 83 for the Sharks, it will be interesting to see who wears it next, and if they’ll have an even bigger impact. Photo Credit: Stan Szeto-Imagn Images
