San Jose Sharks head coach Ryan Warsofsky provided an update on star youngster Will Smith after practice on Friday.
Smith, who has been out since Dec. 13, was forced out of the Sharks’ wild comeback against the Pittsburgh Penguins after he took an awkward hit on the boards. Smith was spotted in a sling for a couple of days after, but has since shed it. He’s been skating with fellow injured winger Philipp Kurashev.
“He’s still week-to-week,” Warsofsky said. “We’re pretty optimistic we’ll get him back before the [Olympic] break.”
Smith is still week-to-week. #SJSharks
Optimistic that he’ll return before Olympic break
— Max Miller (@Real_Max_Miller) January 2, 2026
Kurashev and Smith have been going through the rehab process together, and Warsofsky says the duo is getting tired of the conditioning work. With the San Jose Sharks playing better since the Christmas break, both players have been eager to do their part in contributing to wins.
“They’re good. I think they’re sick of the conditioning, skating, and gym work,” Warsofsky said. “They want to help our team, especially as we’ve had a little bit of success; they want to help our guys. But they’re in good spirits.”
Klingberg is day-to-day
San Jose Sharks defenseman John Klingberg is doubtful to play against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Saturday due to a lower-body injury. Warsofsky stated the Sharks’ d-man suffered the injury during the Sharks’ 4-3 shootout win over the Minnesota Wild.
Klingberg doubtful to play tomorrow due to a lower-body injury. #SJSharks
— Max Miller (@Real_Max_Miller) January 2, 2026
“We think it’s short-term, so we’re not super concerned right now,” Warsofsky said about Klingberg. “Next man up. I think we’re gonna get [Timothy Liljegren] back here. We’re getting healthier, and we’re getting closer with some guys. It’s just a little speed bump here.”
Liljegren skated at San Jose Sharks practice on Friday and has missed the past five games due to an upper-body injury. Liljegren was slotted in Klingberg’s place next to Dmitry Orlov during the skate.
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