Bystedt To Make NHL Debut As Sharks Search For Strong Performance

Filip Bystedt will indeed make his NHL debut for the San Jose Sharks on Thursday against the Vancouver Canucks.

Sharks head coach Ryan Warsofsky told reporters the 22-year-old will center a line with Tyler Toffoli and Kiefer Sherwood on the wings.

“He’s earned it. Obviously, he’s gone through the American League for a couple years and understands his game has grown,” Warsofsky said. “Happy for him. I know you only get one NHL [debut] and make the most of it. I know he’s excited.”

Playing the San Jose Sharks’ 2022 first-round pick on a line with those veterans is a perfect spot for him to start. Warsofsky expects Toffoli and Sherwood to be a good sounding board for Bystedt.

“I think Toff will really help him. [That’s] a guy that’s been around a long time,” Warsofsky explained. Sherwood’s pace can help him as well. And I think Fil can make plays, so I’m excited to see that line.”

Bystedt told reporters on Wednesday that he’s hoping his parents will attend his debut. As of Thursday morning, it sounds like they will be able to get into the Bay Area in time from Sweden to watch.

As Bystedt enters the San Jose Sharks lineup, someone has to come out. On Thursday, the odd forward out will be Zack Ostapchuk. Ostapchuk has played every game this season, and while he hasn’t been awful, the Sharks are searching for more impact throughout their lineup.

“We’ve talked to Chucky, and it’s not like he’s playing poorly. We’ve lost a couple games in a row [and] we’re not playing great hockey,” Warsofsky said. “We got to make some changes and get something going. There’s more things he can do to impact the game in different levels. And we’ve talked to him about that.”

Ty Dellandrea will center the Sharks’ fourth line on Thursday.