NHL Hockey Player News
Ludvig re-enters the lineup in place of the scratched Oliver Kylington. Ludvig has played in just one game this season, registering a shot on goal and two hits in just over 18 minutes of ice time.
Kylington will draw out as John Ludvig re-enters the lineup. Kylington is yet to register a point or a shot on goal in two games this season.
With William Eklund nursing an upper-body injury, Smith will draw into the lawn for his first game of the season. The 26-year-old Smith has 22 points (9G / 13A) in 155 career games and is in his first season with the Sharks organization.
Gushchin has not played since the opening night of the season but will re-enter the Sharks lineup on Friday as Will Smith will be a healthy scratch. The 22-year-old Gushchin has four points (2G / 2A) in seven career NHL games..
As part of pre-planned play-management for the 19-year-old rookie, Smith will have the night off on Friday against the Winnipeg Jets. Smith is averaging 14:01 time-on-ice through his first four NHL games this season, with zero points and a -2 plus/minus rating.
Jiricek had 10 points (1G / 9A) in 43 games with the Blue Jackets last season. The talented 20-year-old offensive Czech defenseman had an impressive playoff run with the Cleveland Monsters (AHL) last season, scoring 11 points (3G / 8A) in 14 games, and is trying to become a full-time NHLer this season.
Spence will immediately re-enter the lineup after sitting out Wednesday's game in Toronto. Kyle Burroughs will sit in his place.