The San Jose Sharks announced on Monday that forwards Will Smith and Philipp Kurashev have been placed on injured reserve. This decision comes after both players sustained injuries during a recent match against the Pittsburgh Penguins. As a result, they will miss the team’s upcoming three-game homestand, which begins on December 12, 2023.
During the game on December 9, 2023, Kurashev left the ice in the second period after colliding forcefully with the end boards in the Penguins’ zone. Smith’s injury occurred later in the match, with 16:30 remaining in the third period when he was checked into the boards by Penguins defenseman Parker Wotherspoon. Smith was seen skating off the ice while clutching his right arm and removing one of his gloves. Following the incident, a brief altercation ensued, with center Macklin Celebrini confronting Wotherspoon.
Before their injuries, Smith and Kurashev were pivotal players for the Sharks. Smith ranked as the team’s second-leading scorer, accumulating 29 points in 32 games this season. Kurashev contributed 15 points in 30 games. Their absence will undoubtedly be felt as the Sharks prepare for their next matches.
To fill the void left by Smith and Kurashev, the Sharks have recalled forwards Igor Chernyshov and Ethan Cardwell from the San Jose Barracuda of the American Hockey League (AHL). This strategic move aims to bolster the Sharks’ lineup as they face the Calgary Flames on December 12, followed by games against the Dallas Stars on December 14 and the Seattle Kraken on December 16.
The Sharks will need to rally as they navigate this challenging period without two of their key players. Fans will be watching closely to see how the team adapts and whether the newly recalled prospects can make an impact during this crucial stretch of games.
