Will Smith’s Breakout Performance
San Jose Sharks rookie center Will Smith has been on a remarkable tear, putting up impressive offensive numbers in his recent games. With 17 points in his last 17 games, Smith has become a key player for the Sharks, showcasing his potential and adaptability on the ice. On the SAP Center floor, Smith was seen preparing to shoot against New York Islanders defenseman Ryan Pulock, a moment that captures his growing confidence and skill. Despite a slow start to his NHL career, Smith has found his rhythm, scoring for the third time in his last five games, bringing his total points for the season to 32.
Overcoming Initial Struggles
Smith’s journey to becoming a reliable offensive threat hasn’t been without its challenges. He struggled at the beginning of the season, not scoring his first goal until game nine. However, when he finally broke the ice, he did so in style, netting two goals against the Chicago Blackhawks. This breakthrough game marked a turning point for Smith, who has since been consistently contributing to the Sharks’ attack. His early struggles were a testament to the steep learning curve for young players entering the NHL, but his resilience and determination have been evident in his recent performances.
Positional Flexibility and Future Potential
Although Smith is naturally a center, he has been playing on the wing to start with. Head coach Ryan Warsofsky acknowledges Smith’s recent success but also emphasizes the continued need for development. "He’s definitely been a lot better here as of late. There’s still things he needs to improve on," Warsofsky said. "A lot of it has to do with he just learned what it’s like to go off a two-week road trip, go through his first trade deadline, lose a friend in a trade, the emotion of all that, the mental they come back right away playing a hockey game on a Saturday night after their long road trip. He just went through a lot, and he’ll learn from it." Warsofsky’s insight highlights the multifaceted nature of a young player’s growth, which extends beyond just on-ice skills to mental and emotional maturity.
Adjusting to the NHL Rigors
Smith’s adaptation to the NHL has been both physical and mental. He missed a few of the Sharks’ back-to-back games early in the season for "development days" as he adjusted to the demands of professional hockey. The forward, a former standout at Boston College, has never played as many games in a season as he is now, making the transition even more challenging. However, these development days have been crucial in helping him find his footing and perform at a high level. His ability to handle the rigors of the NHL has been a significant factor in his recent success, and he continues to show promise as a future cornerstone of the Sharks’ lineup.
The Impact of Equipment Changes
A recent equipment change has also played a role in Smith’s improved performance. He switched to a different stick six games ago to allow for a quicker release of his shot. While Smith himself told reporters that he doesn’t think the change has made a significant difference, the numbers tell a different story. In the last six games, he has recorded four goals and four assists, along with a career-high 19 shots on goal, including six against the Toronto Maple Leafs on March 3. This uptick in shooting and scoring suggests that the new stick might indeed be contributing to his offensive prowess, even if the change is more subtle than overt.
Staying Updated with the Sharks
Smith’s breakout performance is just one of the many stories to follow as the San Jose Sharks continue their season. For fans and followers, staying updated with the team’s latest news, analysis, and breaking updates is essential. You can do this by adding the Sharks to your favorites on Google News, ensuring you never miss a story. Additionally, following Max on Twitter (@Real_Max_Miller) provides real-time insights and commentary on the team’s progress and the individual contributions of players like Will Smith. As the Sharks navigate the challenges of the NHL, the continued growth and development of their young stars will be crucial to their success.
