Danil Gushchin’s Dad Shares 10 Unexpected Facts & Pictures About His Son (+)

Who would know Danil Gushchin better than his own father?

Danil’s dad Vadim, with assistance from Danil himself, walked us through family photo albums and shared 10 unexpected facts and pictures about his son.

Here’s what everybody knows: The top San Jose Sharks prospect was supposed to represent AHL affiliate Barracuda at the AHL All-Star Game on Sunday and Monday.

The Russian winger leads the San Jose Barracuda in points (37), goals (14), and assists (23), and he was, for a time, the Cuda’s lone All-Star representative.

But on Friday, it was announced that the 21-year-old forward would have to skip the All-Star showcase because of an upper-body injury suffered on Jan. 26 against the Calgary Wranglers. Instead, defenseman Shakir Mukhamadullin will be the Cuda’s lone rep.

Still, Gushchin remains one of the most exciting San Jose Sharks prospects. We’ve seen his goals, assists, and even between-the-legs scoring attempts for the Cuda. We’ve seen his NHL games for the Sharks where he’s looked dangerous and has already recorded his first goal.

What most of us don’t know about the 2020 San Jose Sharks’ third-round pick is about his early years—in his native Yekaterinburg (Russia’s fourth-largest city), Moscow, and then a few seasons in the USHL and OHL.

Here’s what father spilled about son.

Fact #1: Gushchin has always liked playing goalie

Vadim Gushchin: At home, we’ve always had a hockey goal for Danil. He would ask everyone to shoot. Myself, grandpa, mom… everyone! Yes, he’s always been a forward but kept his goalie equipment at home. My friend’s son was a goaltender, and when he stopped playing, he gave Danya everything he had.