The 2025-26 NHL season starts Oct. 7. Leading up to the season opener, NHL.com is identifying six things to watch for each team. Today, the San Jose Sharks.

Last season: 20-50-12, eighth in Pacific Division; missed Stanley Cup Playoffs

Coach: Ryan Warsofsky (second season)

Biggest challenge

A little more patience from the organization and fan base. Sharks general manager Mike Grier wants the rebuild to start pushing forward after six seasons without playoffs and finishing no higher than sixth in their division. The front office had an aggressive offseason by signing veterans Jeff Skinner , Adam Gaudette , Philipp Kurashev , John Klingberg and Dmitry Orlov , trading for Alex Nedeljkovic and Ryan Reaves , and claiming Nick Leddy off waivers from the St. Louis Blues. A f

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