Graf Impressed With Stenberg Early In Sharks Camp

Many standouts have emerged at San Jose Sharks training camp so far, but 2026 NHL Draft No. 2 overall pick Ivar Stenberg has caught his linemate’s eye.

Collin Graf broke out during the 25-26 season, scoring 21 goals. Viewed as one of the Sharks’ smartest players, the winger is now starting on a line with Stenberg and fellow Swede Alexander Wennberg. Wenneberg is mentoring the 18-year-old Stenberg, but Graf is a perfect addition to complete the line.

“[Stenberg’s] really good. They’re talking in Swedish a lot, so I have no idea what they’re saying, but hopefully it’s good things,” Graf said on Friday. “As you said, all smart guys, and I think it’s been good.”

Graf will play a prominent role this season for the Sharks at 5-on-5 and on the PK. The Sharks hope Stenberg’s adjustment to the NHL will be easier, given his experience against men in Sweden. Graf told reporters that the 18-year-old’s hockey brain is already top-notch.

“His decision-making. He thinks at an NHL level [and] he keeps up with the pace mentally,” Graf said of the rookie.

All signs point to the San Jose Sharks deploying Stenberg regularly this season. Head coach Ryan Warsfosky noted that every young player is on their own plan, but didn’t indicate that Stenberg could be eased into his rookie year like Will Smith was.

“His skill came out [during the scrimmage]. But for me, it was his smarts. His hockey sense is really good. Sees the ice really well, but picking up our systems quickly,” Warsofsky said on Friday. “We’re trying to work on the English a little bit, and he’s starting to understand it. Wenny’s helped him. You show a clip, and then 10 minutes out there, he’s out there practicing it, and he’s picked it up really well.”

Lineups for Sunday’s preseason game are unknown, but it could be the first chance to deploy the Stenberg-Wennberg-Graf line.