The San Jose Sharks were dealt a tough blow against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday as forwards Will Smith and Philipp Kurashev left the game with injuries.
Kurashev is dealing with an upper-body injury, and Smith’s is undisclosed but appeared to be an arm or shoulder injury after taking an awkward check along the boards, but nothing is official. Both forwards have been placed on injured reserve by the Sharks, meaning they will miss at a minimum the upcoming three-game homestand.
The Sharks were initially scheduled to practice on Monday, but were given another day off by head coach Ryan Warsfosky. An official update on Smith and Kurashev will come after Tuesday’s morning skate.
In a corresponding move, the San Jose Sharks recalled Ethan Cardwell and Igor Chernyshov from the San Jose Barracuda.
The #SJSharks have placed Philipp Kurashev and Will Smith on IR. Igor Chernyshov and Ethan Cardwell have been recalled.
— Max Miller (@Real_Max_Miller) December 15, 2025
Chernyshov’s recall is the first in his career, and it is more than deserved. In 25 games with the ‘Cuda this season, the Sharks winger has 11 goals and 12 assists. He’s become one of coach John McCarthy’s go-to players in any situation. The 2024 33rd overall pick has shown an uptick in his skating, which has brought much success to his game.
“He’s been great. His size, speed, [and can] get to the inside,” McCarthy told SHD on Dec. 5. “He’s been on a pretty good stretch here.”
Chernyshov was named the AHL’s rookie of the month for November.
For Cardwell, this is his second recall to the San Jose Sharks this season. He scored a goal against the Seattle Kraken on Nov. 5 and has amassed two goals in his 10 NHL games.
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