Since returning from the Olympic break, the San Jose Sharks are just 1 for 9 on the power play, and something has to give.

Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky was critical of the man-advantage following the 2-1 win over the Winnipeg Jets on Sunday. While the team won the game, he had direct comments about the ongoing issue. Over the last 10 games, the Sharks have a power-play percentage of 17.6.

“First unit just… We just can’t find the right combination to get it going and the identity of it,” Warsofsky said. “It’s unfortunate because we have some really good players out there.”

John Klingberg had first crack as the Sharks’ PP1 QB, but against the Jets, Dmitry Orlov got the call. Klingberg remained on PP2, which has looked better since coming out of the break, and did score the goal. Part of the reason PP2 has looked better is the emergence of Michael Misa, who scored his first overtime-winning goal on Sunday.

But the replacement and proper PP1 QB for the Sharks isn’t currently in the NHL. Top San Jose Sharks defense prospect Luca Cagnoni is itching for another shot at the NHL. Whether it was during the pre-season or the six games he played last season, Cagnoni’s calling card is facilitating offense, and he’s shown he can.

The 21-year-old lefty, who can play both sides, has spent the majority of his development time with the San Jose Barracuda, working on his defense. Even while the focus isn’t on offense, his production hasn’t slipped in the slightest.

In 49 games this season, Cagnoni has six goals and 26 assists. He likely won’t reach the 16 goals he scored last season. But that’s because the Barracuda have brought in more scoring throughout its lineup.

The Barracuda currently leads the AHL in power play percentage at 25.3%. 18 of Cagnoni’s 32 points have come on the man advantage.

With the NHL Trade Deadline on Friday, the San Jose Sharks could see their blue line change drastically. With only Dmitry Orlov and Sam Dickinson signed next season, Mike Grier will have to make some decisions. Mario Ferraro, Timothy Liljegren, Vincent Desharnais, and Klingberg are all unrestricted free agents after the season ends.

If Klingberg or any pending UFA defensemen are traded by Friday’s deadline, the first recall should be Luca Cagnoni. The San Jose Sharks are in their first push for the Playoffs since 2019. Adding Cagnoni’s passing, improved defense, and elite skating could be their internal add for the most critical part of the season.

“It takes time for young players to understand some patience in the power play, and that’s where we’re really struggling,” Warsofsky said. “We’re going to keep working at it and get better and try to improve it, because it’s key for us going down the stretch.”

The pathway for a Cagnoni recall was also made easier with Vincent Iorio being claimed off waivers.