The San Jose Sharks’ defense is heading into a distinctive situation for the 2025-26 season. Only one defenseman, Dmitry Orlov—a free agent signed through the 2026-27 season with a full no-move clause for the first year—has a contract extending beyond that season. This effectively guarantees Orlov’s return for the next year. Beyond Orlov, the defensive lineup is uncertain, essentially giving the Sharks a season-long evaluation period. Players who meet the team’s expectations and contribute positively may be retained, while others could be allowed to leave next summer. This gives GM Mike Grier the flexibility to be selective, especially as prospects like Sam Dickinson and Luca Cagnoni compete for NHL roles.
Shakir Mukhamadullin stands out as the most likely candidate to remain, having shown promising NHL potential at just 23 years old. As a former first-round draft pick, his potential is seen as very high, making him a probable fixture on the 2026-27 roster—if not for his disappointing performance this season. Jack Thompson also becomes a restricted free agent after 2025-26, but unlike Mukhamadullin, he’s not assured a spot this coming fall and faces challenges making the team. His continued presence in the organization into next summer could lead to a new contract, but that remains uncertain.
Among unrestricted free agents, Timothy Lil Jögren appears the most likely to secure a new contract. The Sharks didn’t pay much to acquire him, but GM Grier was impressed by Lil Jögren last October. As a young, right-handed defenseman still developing, he likely has room to grow, making an extension plausible if he remains committed to the team.
John Klingberg, the Sharks’ only right-handed defense addition this past summer, is older than the core group but impressed during his introductory press event with the promise of revitalized play. If he lives up to that potential, it would be wise for the Sharks to sign him for a few more seasons to stabilize the right side of their defense in the long run.
Veteran Mario Ferraro, a longtime Shark, almost certainly will be moved within the next 12 months. Despite ongoing trade rumors and his openness to a new experience, the key question is whether he will be traded at the deadline or allowed to walk in free agency. A trade deadline move seems more logical, especially for teams emerging from rebuilding phases, as Ferraro lacks trade protection in his contract.
Nick Leddy, claimed from the St. Louis Blues this summer, offers versatility with the ability to play both sides of the defense despite being left-handed. His flexibility is valuable, and his cap hit may prove useful, although he likely won’t have a prominent role long-term and may sign a smaller deal next season. Unlike Ferraro, Leddy is expected to finish this season with the Sharks.
Finally, Vincent Desharnais serves as a dependable depth option, but with strong competition for roster spots, it’s doubtful he will make the opening night lineup. It seems unlikely the Sharks will offer him an extension at this point.
Overall, the Sharks have several options and time to make decisions. An exceptional 2025-26 season from any player could alter the future landscape, but significant changes will require multiple factors aligning. Defense will be a key storyline from training camp through next summer.
Photo credit: Stan Szeto-Immagn Image
Fan Take: This evolving defensive situation is crucial for Sharks fans and hockey enthusiasts alike because it shows how a team balances development with strategic decisions to build a competitive future. Watching how the Sharks manage these defensemen could signal a new era of agility and growth in the sport, emphasizing smart player evaluations and roster flexibility.
