Sharks Continue To Put More Responsibility On Stenberg

The San Jose Sharks haven’t been shy about putting 2026 No. 2 pick Ivar Stenberg in big situations in his first five career games.

Stenberg is averaging 15:41 through five games, but that number is rising game to game. Against the Edmonton Oilers, the Sharks deployed the rookie on 22 shifts, totaling 18:09 of ice time. Stenberg and his line were tasked with shutting down Connor McDavid, and they did a good job.

Having a line that sports a 19-year-old in his 5th career game playing against McDavid and Leon Draisaitl isn’t easy. But Stenberg did it extremely well.

While his two-way game has been a nice surprise, the real reason the San Jose Sharks drafted him second overall is his offensive ability. He’s still searching for his first goal, but Stenberg has two very pretty assists. One was a terrific pass to Tyler Toffoli, and the other to Darnell Nurse for the OT winner.

The Sharks are hoping to jumpstart their offense on Tuesday against the Boston Bruins after head coach Ryan Warsofsky made some changes. Stenberg will now play with Michael Misa and Kiefer Sherwood at 5v5, but the real boost in responsibility is his move to the top power-play unit.

“It’s probably just his composure,” Warsofsky said about moving Stenberg to PP1. “Composure with the puck on the half wall. The game slows down from [there, and] he can make some slick plays and understand where guys are.”

Stenberg will run the left flank for the San Jose Sharks, sliding Will Smith into the bumper position. Stenberg is taking Igor Chernyshov’s spot on the top unit.

As the game slows down for the 19-year-old, he’s finding he can use his skill more.

“Like, first and second game, you’re so nervous and want to do everything right, and now I feel like I can start to play more my game,” Stenberg said. “Try to help the team and win games and create offense.”