Mikael Granlund is back! Granlund spoke with local media before Saturday’s San Jose Sharks-Dallas Stars tilt. It’s been just one week since Granlund and Cody Ceci were traded to the Stars for a 2025 first and a conditional 2025 fourth (which becomes a third if Dallas makes the Stanley Cup Final).

NHL: San Jose Sharks face ex-teammates Mikael Granlund and Cody Ceci on Saturday when they face the Dallas Stars at SAP Center

The San Jose Sharks have prime opportunities to grow their rookie’s skill and depth as well as better the team in the end. Even though the team will miss out on playoffs for the sixth year in a row, they can use this time to focus more on skill development.

SAN JOSE – One day after seeing Mikael Granlund and Cody Ceci traded to the Dallas Stars, the already thinned-out San Jose Sharks were forced to pick up the pieces Sunday and figure out the best way forward without their leading scorer and arguably their best defensive defenseman.

Few NHL teams need some time away from the rink more than the San Jose Sharks. In their last game before the league pauses its schedule to hold the 4 Nations Face-Off, the Sharks gave up three goals in a lopsided first period.