Fabian Zetterlund returned to San Jose Sharks practice following the trade of Mikael Granlund to the Dallas Stars. Zetterlund expressed his admiration for Granlund, highlighting the veteran forward's guidance since arriving from the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2023. The two developed a strong on-ice chemistry, with Zetterlund achieving a career-high 24 goals last season, largely attributed to playing alongside Granlund. Zetterlund acknowledged the emotional challenge of losing a leader and mentor but emphasized the need to move forward as a team.

Granlund's influence extended beyond the rink, with Zetterlund enjoying pregame lunches and camaraderie during road trips with him. Zetterlund reflected on Granlund's positive attitude, noting how he brought energy and unity to the Sharks. Zetterlund has continued to perform well this season, with 14 goals and 18 assists, even as the team navigates lineup changes due to injuries. The Sharks must adapt as they face the Montreal Canadiens in their upcoming game.

The San Jose Sharks recently saw the departure of two key players, Mikael Granlund and Cody Ceci, traded to the Dallas Stars, which has left the team in a reflective mood. Alternate captain Luke Kunin expressed his gratitude for Granlund's contributions, highlighting his role in shaping the younger players and the team's culture. Fellow players, including William Eklund, shared their sadness, acknowledging Granlund's leadership both on and off the ice.

With Granlund’s exit, expectations shift for young players like Eklund and Fabian Zetterlund, who were positively influenced by him. The Sharks’ management is keenly aware of the leadership void, recognizing the challenge it presents as the team aims to continue improving.

In a tightly contested game, Barrett Hayton scored a pivotal goal late in the match, leading the Utah Hockey Club to a 2-1 victory over the San Jose Sharks. This win marked Utah's third home victory in 12 games this season. Nick Schmaltz also contributed with a goal, while Karel Vejmelka made 18 crucial saves to help secure the win.

The Sharks struck first with Fabian Zetterlund's quick wrist shot just 58 seconds into the game. However, Utah equalized in the second period thanks to Schmaltz's accurate shot from distance. The intensity ramped up as Utah's Clayton Keller had a goal overturned due to interference.

In the latest updates from the NHL, several teams are dealing with injury concerns as they prepare for upcoming games. The Chicago Blackhawks will have forward Taylor Hall back in the lineup, while Craig Smith is listed as day-to-day due to a back injury.

The Colorado Avalanche welcomed Jonathan Drouin back from an upper-body injury, while the Montreal Canadiens reported that David Savard and Patrik Laine are not traveling with the team due to injuries and illness, respectively.

In Nashville, the Predators are missing Luke Evangelista for four weeks, alongside Jeremy Lauzon and Adam Wilsby, both on the IR. The New York Islanders are hopeful that Semyon Varlamov and Isaiah George will return to practice soon, but Hudson Fasching is sidelined for two weeks. The New York Rangers saw Igor Shesterkin return after an injury absence.

Further updates include Ottawa's Noah Gregor being out with a lower-body injury, Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin missing another game due to an upper-body injury, and San Jose's Fabian Zetterlund as a game-time decision. The Winnipeg Jets anticipate the return of Dylan Samberg and Josh Morrissey for their next matchup.

Buffalo Sabres forward Jiri Kulich is sidelined for a week due to a lower-body injury, highlighting the ongoing challenges for the team. Meanwhile, Calgary Flames are monitoring Connor Zary's knee, with further imaging expected as the swelling subsides. Carolina Hurricanes also face setbacks with William Carrier out and Shayne Gostisbehere leaving practice early.

Frederik Andersen of the Hurricanes made his return to practice following knee surgery, while Colorado Avalanche's Jonathan Drouin missed a game due to an upper-body issue. The Blue Jackets are dealing with wrist concerns for Sean Monahan, and the Red Wings have placed Jeff Petry on IR.

New York Rangers are evaluating Filip Chytil's upper-body injury, and Igor Shesterkin has been practicing. The Penguins' Evgeni Malkin is day-to-day, and the Sharks face a similar situation with Fabian Zetterlund. Vancouver Canucks coach Rick Tocchet hinted at a possible return for Thatcher Demko, but Elias Pettersson continues to miss games.