San Jose Sharks’ Michael Misa Injured, Out for Several Games

San Jose Sharks rookie center Michael Misa faces a setback due to a lower-body injury sustained during a morning skate at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle. The injury occurred earlier this week and has placed the 18-year-old on injured reserve, with an estimated recovery timeline of one to two weeks, according to head coach Ryan Warsofsky.

Misa was injured while participating in a power play drill on Wednesday morning, just hours before the Sharks faced the Seattle Kraken. “He entered a puck battle, and something happened,” Warsofsky explained. The Sharks are set to play the Winnipeg Jets on Friday and the Florida Panthers on Saturday, continuing a demanding schedule of 15 games in 29 days throughout the month.

Warsofsky acknowledged the disappointment Misa feels, especially since his injury took place during practice rather than in a game. “It’s not going to be his first time he’s injured in his NHL career,” he said. “What doesn’t hurt you will make you stronger.” Misa, selected second overall in the NHL Draft in June 2023, has recorded three points in seven games this season.

If Misa appears in 10 games during his rookie season, it will trigger the first year of his entry-level contract to be counted. The Sharks’ medical staff remains optimistic that Misa’s recovery will be brief and will not require several months. His potential absence from the lineup could impact his chances of representing Canada at the IIHF World Junior Championships, which start on December 26, 2023, in Minnesota.

Despite being sidelined, Warsofsky emphasized that Misa can still develop during his recovery. He noted that Misa will have the opportunity to observe experienced players like Mark Scheifele and Jonathan Toews during Friday’s game, gaining insights into professional play. “There’s still ways we can develop players,” Warsofsky stated. “He’s got rehab that he’ll have to do, and there are meetings that we have. He’s not just out on an island doing his own little thing.”

In response to Misa’s injury, the Sharks have placed him on injured reserve and recalled Zack Ostapchuk from the Barracuda. Although Ostapchuk has been called up, he is expected to be a scratch for the upcoming game against the Jets.

This injury presents a challenge for Misa as he begins his professional career, but the Sharks remain hopeful for his swift recovery and continued development.