After an impressive outing against the Calgary Flames for the San Jose Sharks, Dylan Gambrell was sent down to the AHL Affiliate.
In last nights disappointing loss Dylan Gambrell stood out for the San Jose Sharks. With only a few bright spots that are worth highlighting in this most recent loss Gambrell’s performance was a breath of fresh air.
Dylan Gambrell slotted on the 4th line with Barclay Goodrow and Micheal Haley. He was one of the few skaters on the ice who had their legs for the entirety of the game. Gambrell could be seen hounding the puck carrier all game long. He also kept play alive in the offensive zone with smart passes and his ability to win puck battles.
He proved useful winning 4 out his 5 face-offs and eventually earned top penalty killing responsibilities as the game wore on. His 2 shots on goal were actually a big fraction of the limited shots the San Jose Sharks produced in the contest. He ended the game with 13:03 of ice time and on in the top six of the line-up.
Despite all this Dylan Gambrell got demoted back to the San Jose Barracuda where he’s been able to record 41 points in 45 games. He’ll definitely be able to help the Barracuda in their own push towards the playoffs.
Even though he played the move is justified considering the probable return of skaters like Joe Pavelski, Lukas Radil, and Melker Karlsson. There hasn’t been any news yet but the recent transaction should have signaled that we will be seeing these players very soon.
The San Jose Sharks are locked into a playoff spot and know who to expect in the first round. The Vegas Golden Knights are speedy team and a player with the skating ability and puck discipline like Gambrell would be extremely serviceable in a series against the reigning Western Conference champs.
However it remains to be seen who the San Jose Sharks take into the Stanley Cup Playoffs. But it would be wise of them to consider taking Gambrell along for the ride.