Sharks’ Shakir Mukhamadullin Out for Season After Upper-Body Injury

SAN JOSE, Calif. — Shakir Mukhamadullin‘s season is officially over after suffering a significant upper-body injury during the San Jose Sharks‘ game against the Anaheim Ducks on April 1. The injury will prevent the 23-year-old defenseman from participating in the Sharks’ final six games and any potential AHL playoff run with the San Jose Barracuda.

Mukhamadullin sustained the injury during an altercation involving Ducks forward Troy Terry and Anaheim winger Frank Vatrano. In the third period of the match, Mukhamadullin collided with Terry before being tackled to the ice by Vatrano. The impact caused Mukhamadullin to fall awkwardly, resulting in immediate pain that required assistance from a team trainer.

Sharks head coach Ryan Warsofsky did not disclose the nature of the injury, deferring confirmation on whether surgery will be necessary. “We’re not there yet,” Warsofsky stated regarding the possibility of an operation for Mukhamadullin. However, he noted that a full recovery is expected.

Before the injury, Mukhamadullin had established himself as a key player for the Sharks, averaging over 20 minutes of ice time and playing alongside Mario Ferraro on the top defensive pair. His absence is a blow to a Sharks defense already struggling with injuries, as Vincent Desharnais and Jimmy Schuldt are also sidelined.

“It’s unfortunate. He was playing some good hockey,” said Warsofsky. “That’s how this game works; injuries happen. In every sport, there’s going to be adversity, and this kid is going through it at a young age. We’ll support him and help him through this.”

After their elimination from playoff contention last month, the Sharks have just five games remaining in their season, with their last home game scheduled for April 16 against Calgary. Meanwhile, Mukhamadullin’s injury affects the Barracuda, who are on the verge of clinching a playoff spot.

“It’s a tough bounce for them, for sure,” Warsofsky shared regarding the Barracuda. “But again, this is the game of hockey. No one feels bad for you. So, next man up, and there will be other players who can step up and take big minutes.”

In addition to Mukhamadullin’s injury, the Sharks are monitoring other defensemen, including Jan Rutta, who has yet to return since January, and Desharnais, who has missed several games. With the increasing list of injuries, younger players are expected to step into more prominent roles as the season winds down.

As for the Sharks’ leading goal scorer Tyler Toffoli, he is considered day-to-day with a lower-body injury and was unable to participate in the Monday game against the Flames. With 28 goals this season, Toffoli is third on the team with 50 points and has been vital to the Sharks’ offense.

“It’s tough. But again, no one feels bad for us,” Warsofsky remarked about the numerous injuries affecting the team. “Everyone’s going through it this time of year.”