What Happened
Ivar Stenberg, the second overall pick in June's NHL Draft, has seen his role grow through his first eight games with the San Jose Sharks. After playing 13:35 in the home opener against Florida, he logged 17:30 in Saturday's shootout win over Detroit and now averages 15:51 per game. Stenberg's ice time comes entirely at even strength and on the first power play unit. Monday's game in Toronto pairs him with Gavin McKenna, the first overall pick, according to Sportsnet.
Key Details
- Stenberg was taken second overall by San Jose after Toronto selected McKenna first overall.
- Stenberg averages 15:51 per game through eight games, all at even strength and on the first power play unit.
- His season-low 13:35 came in San Jose's home opener against Florida.
- McKenna averages 14:23 per game and has 2 goals and 3 assists in nine games.
- McKenna has moved to the first power play unit while John Tavares is out with a lower-body injury.
What It Means
The matchup offers a direct comparison of the draft's top two picks in their rookie seasons. Stenberg has settled into a larger even-strength and top-unit role in San Jose, while McKenna has produced in a middle-six role in Toronto and now gets first-unit power play time with Tavares injured. Both players' usage remains a central storyline early in their NHL careers.
What's Next
Monday's game in Toronto is the head-to-head meeting between Stenberg and McKenna. Stenberg's ice time trend and McKenna's role on the first power play unit with Tavares out are the areas to watch.