19-year-old Michael Misa is ready to help the San Jose Sharks in their final 27 games as their push for the Stanley Cup Playoffs begins.
In 18 games this season, the 2025 NHL Draft No. 2 pick has two goals and six assists. He’s started to push the play with his skating, and flashes of his offensive upside are showing more often. Misa, like the rest of the Sharks squad, used the break to get away from the game but came back more determined.
“Team perspective, like you said, playoff push. We obviously want to make the playoffs,” Misa said. “We’re going to do everything we can these last 27 games, and hopefully it goes our way.”
Misa turned 19 three days ago, and while the San Jose Sharks center says it doesn’t feel much different, he’s ready to prove he’s learned from the NHL experience he’s already gained.
“Personally, just keep growing as a player. I’ve been feeling pretty good about my game recently,” Misa told SHD. “I think I’ve been playing some better hockey, so [I’m] going to continue to do that. And work hard.”
Misa took the break to go home to the Toronto area and spend time with his family. The Sharks’ rookie has had a bumpy season, marked by injuries, development days, and a disappointing result for Canada at the World Junior Championship. The break couldn’t have come at a better time for Misa.
“Still working out, skating a bit, but it was more of a relaxing break, a little bit,” Misa explained. “Seeing family was great. Got to spend my birthday at home, which doesn’t normally happen. A little mix of both. But yeah, definitely enjoyed it.”
Lines haven’t been showcased in either of the first two days of San Jose Sharks practice since the break. Misa has been moved to the wing on occasion but has mostly stayed in his natural center position. As players return from the Olympics, it will be interesting to see where the Sharks place their top young talent on the forward lines.