What should the San Jose Sharks expect from Ivar Stenberg in his rookie season?
Two NHL scouts, who watched the 2026 No. 2 pick closely last season in the SHL, World Juniors, and World Championships shared their predictions.
Also, what will it take for the 18-year-old Swedish winger to win the Calder Trophy?
Scout No. 1 is bullish about Stenberg and his role in his rookie campaign.
“I’d be happy with 50-55 points,” he said. “For sure, a top-six [for the San Jose Sharks].”
Scout No. 2, however, thinks the teen will have more of a learning curve.
“He gets 30-40 points. Top-nine and PP2, at times,” he said. “Barracuda, at times.”
Stenberg is eligible to shuttle between the NHL and AHL this year.
In their rookie seasons, 2025 No. 2 pick Michael Misa saw some AHL time on a conditioning assignment and 2023 No. 4 pick Will Smith, arguably, could’ve used some time down there. 2024 No. 1 pick Macklin Celebrini, of course, was a different animal.
In addition, unlike Celebrini, Smith, and Misa’s rookie campaigns, these San Jose Sharks are expecting to make the playoffs, so Stenberg should have a higher bar to stay in the line-up.
What will keep Stenberg in the NHL all year?