Igor Chernyshov has capitalized on his recall to the San Jose Sharks with a massive pop.
The 2024 second-round pick might be the steal of the draft through his first seven games with eight points (3 goals, 5 assists). Macklin Celebrini may have lost Will Smith on his wing, but Chernyshov’s chemistry with the Sharks Olympian has been otherworldly.
More evidence of that came against the Minnesota Wild on Wednesday as the duo hooked up for a goal and an assist for each other. Celebrini fed Chernyshov for the Sharks’ first goal of the game, and a spectacular one at that.
“That is an NHL move. The speed, the demand that he wants with the puck,” San Jose Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky said. “He and Mac obviously have got some chemistry going right now. A great finish. He had a couple chances [on a] similar move. Similar to Mac, it keeps getting better.”
Chernyshov is having fun playing in the NHL, but is staying humble. SHD spoke to the 20-year-old after practice on Tuesday about his mentality of playing in the best league in the world.
“I wanna concentrate on good momentum. Good moments,” Chernyshov said. “Offensive play, defensive play, like what the coaches say to me. I just need to do it and not concentrate on scoring goals. But I’m so happy to score in this league. I wanna, of course, but I need more concentration for good moments.”
The rookie also spoke highly of Celebrini, saying that he’s gone above and beyond to help him improve.
“I said before my first game, Mac is the best player in the league. I really like playing with him, and he helped me a lot,” Chernyshov said. “A lot of talk on the bench after every shift. He’s taught me some stuff, [on and off] the ice. I appreciate it, and I really like playing with him.”
The San Jose Sharks have found lightning in a bottle with the duo of Celebrini and Chernyshov. William Eklund has also had a slight uptick in offense after joining them on the top line. Chernyshov’s pass to Celebrini on Wednesday was not easy, but he showcased his speed, size, and skill to make it happen.
At this rate, there is no reason Chernyshov should be sent back to the San Jose Barracuda. The offensive success and drive to play a complete 200-foot game are precisely what allowed him to be called up in the first place. Warsofsky is speaking highly of him, and when Smith returns, placing him with Chernyshov and Celebrini could be one of the most dangerous lines in the NHL.
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