Klingberg Faces Uncertainty After Seattle Loss

San Jose, California – John Klingberg‘s position with the Sharks is in jeopardy following a dismal game against the Seattle Kraken on Saturday. In the 4-1 loss, Klingberg, who finished -3, was visibly shaken as he sat in his stall, contemplating his performance before addressing the media.

Just ten days earlier, after a more favorable 6-1 victory over the Kraken, Sharks head coach Ryan Warsofsky was quick to defend Klingberg’s role on the power play, despite ongoing criticisms. When questioned about Klingberg’s shot, Warsofsky replied, “Is everyone okay with his shot? Thank you.”

However, the situation has drastically changed. As the Sharks prepared for their next game, Klingberg was taken off both power play units, a decision that signals a drastic shift in the team’s plans. Warsofsky confirmed Klingberg’s likely scratch for the upcoming match, stating, “[Klingberg] knows he can play better.”

Tyler Toffoli‘s recent performance has also come under scrutiny. Despite being moved down to the third line and second power play group, Warsofsky praised Toffoli’s efforts in the last game against Seattle, highlighting his physical engagement on the ice. “I thought he was skating, he was engaged physically,” he said. Toffoli has only five goals in 19 games this season, a significant drop from his previous scoring rates.

Both players are dealing with pressure to perform, particularly Klingberg, who is well aware of expectations for veterans. “I just want him to focus on what he did in game 19 and do that in game 20,” Warsofsky said.

Additionally, the Sharks face further injury concerns, with Jeff Skinner sidelined for a week-to-week period due to a lower-body injury. Warsofsky noted, “We dodged a bullet” regarding Skinner not suffering a fracture. Skinner’s scoring prowess has been crucial for the Sharks, as he ranks second in shots per 60 minutes on the team.

The Sharks are preparing for their next game against the Utah Mammoth, scheduled for 7 PM PT at SAP Center. Fans can watch the game live on NBC Sports California and listen on the Sharks Audio Network.