William Espy
The San Jose Sharks took a gamble on Philipp Kurashev, and now they’re cashing in.
The 26-year-old forward was named the NHL’s Third Star of the Week for the first time in his career just a month into his first season as a member of the Sharks organization. In his last four games, he scored four goals and added three assists to earn the honor.
Kurashev offered three keys to his recent success, starting with a selfless one.
“My teammates, especially lately,” he stated when asked what contributed to his recent run of form. “My linemates, we’ve gelled really well and I think that’s the biggest part.”
The Münsingen, Switzerland native has spent the majority of his time recently alongside William Eklund and Alex Wennberg to start the season.
Another key to his success? A full summer of training.
Kurashev’s 2024 off-season was hampered due to an injury which left him unable to train as he would’ve liked.
“I had problems with my wrist, so I was able to get surgery last summer, and just build it back up,” he said.
Kurashev struggled last season with seven goals and 14 points in 51 games, and the Chicago Blackhawks declined to qualify the pending RFA, making him a UFA. This was after a breakout 54-point campaign in 2023-24. The San Jose Sharks pounced, signing the 26-year-old center-winger to a one year, $1.2 million pact.
“This time, I was able to have a healthy summer, and I think that also plays a big role in it. Overall, feeling a lot healthier, getting more rest and all that. I think that plays all into it at the same time.”
While his physical health is important to his ability to perform on the ice, Kurashev knows it isn’t everything. The third key?
“Health is not just the body, it’s also your mind,” he said. “I think that’s really good at the moment, and I’m happy about that.”
Kurashev revealed that he’s working with a mental performance coach.
“I have someone I work with in that space, and he’s helped me a lot,” Kurashev revealed. “It’s something I worked on and continue to work on. It’s not just one thing. Mostly it’s visualization and just focusing on everyday.”
Kurashev is on such a tear, he’s even gone viral recently.
“I saw the video. It’s a pretty funny one, but we’re just emotional in the game,” Kurashev smiled. “I think it’s more just a funny video.”
The San Jose Sharks hope that Kurashev’s hot streak continues, as their fortunes have risen with his. They’ve gone 3-2-1 in their last six, since Kurashev was healthy scratched for two games.
Whether or not Kurashev will be able to maintain this level of play for an entire season remains to be seen, however, the pending RFA is certainly showing how effective of a player he can be.