The San Jose Sharks practiced in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, and coach Ryan Warsofsky ruled out forward Will Smith for Thursday’s game.
Per Tom Gulitti of NHL.com, Smith was a full participant in Sharks practice and was not wearing a non-contact jersey. Despite that, Smith won’t play against the Washington Capitals.
Will Smith (upper body) practiced with contact with the Sharks today in D.C. but won’t play vs. Capitals tomorrow, per coach Ryan Warsofsky.
He wasn’t sure yet about whether Smith will play Friday at Detroit. Has to see first what the report on him was following practice today.
— Tom Gulitti (@TomGulittiNHL) January 14, 2026
Smith has now skated in back-to-back sessions where he could take contact, as he eyes a return from an upper-body injury. Smith hasn’t played since Dec. 13 against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Sheng Peng of SJHN reported that Warsofsky said that the Sharks haven’t officially ruled out Smith for Friday’s game against the Detroit Red Wings. Smith’s addition to the Sharks’ lineup could be key in the final stretch of games before the Olympic break.
Smith was having a terrific second NHL season with 29 points (12 goals, 17 assists) in 33 games. Igor Chernyshov has filled in nicely on the Sharks’ top line with Macklin Celebrini, but his offense has slowed after a hot start. After scoring eight points in his first seven games, Chernyshov has just one point in his last five.
When Smith does return to the San Jose Sharks lineup, roster decisions will have to be made to make room. Chernyshov and Pavol Regenda appear to be the two most likely options to be sent down. Ty Dellandrea, who is also injured, is an option to go on IR to open a roster spot.
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