SJHN Daily: 3 Teams That Might Want Merkley, Bystedt Voted Sweden’s Best

Though Team Sweden failed to medal at the 2023 IIHF World Juniors Tournament after falling to Team USA in the bronze medal game, San Jose Sharks prospect Filip Bystedt had himself a solid showing.

The 18-year-old centerman, who was selected 27th overall by the Sharks in the 2022 draft, was selected as Sweden’s player of the tournament by media in attendance after registering four goals and six assists in seven games. Just days ago, Chris Peters of FloHockey explained what makes Bystedt such a solid player, but also noted what he can do to further improve his game in the future.

“What we’ve learned is when he’s playing to the middle of the ice, he is very effective,” Peters said. “When he’s failing to get to the middle of the ice – and this is any player, right – but a player at his size and speed should be a guy that consistently gets through the middle and can kind of dominate the middle of the ice. That’s what he’s supposed to do. And I’ve seen a few games this tournament where he just hasn’t gotten that straight-ahead, dominant power forward kind of game he can play.”

With his and his teammates’ tournament having come to an end, Bystedt will return home to Sweden to continue playing for HC Linkoping in the SHL. In 26 games so far this season, he has registered four goals and 11 points, impressive totals given his age in what is a very strong professional league.

AT SAN JOSE HOCKEY NOW…

Welcome Keegan McNally to SJHN! Keegan’s first breaks down how Ryan Merkley‘s offensive game is actually as troubling as his defensive side.

San Jose Sharks goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen admitted recently that he wasn’t aware he could play with a broken stick on a play that resulted in a goal for Patrick Kane.

Despite their struggles through the first half of 2022-23, can the San Jose Sharks be a competitive team as soon as next season?

The scary situation involving Damar Hamlin affected many, including Sharks coach David Quinn, who himself was involved in a similar situation years ago.

IN OTHER SHARKS NEWS…

Karlsson Named to All-Star Game, Meier Next?

Ryan Merkley recently requested a trade from the organization, and these three teams in particular may be interested in giving him a look.

GOLD for Gaudreau!! He now has U18 Gold & U20 Gold!

Truly a tremendous achievement. 🏆🏆🏆 #Sting #WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/lHgCgwnFAe

— @StingUpdates (@StingUpdates) January 6, 2023

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AROUND THE NHL…

I’m biased but I think @Friedesigns nailed my new mask. But only 1 persons opinion really matters…what does the real #Deadpool think?? @VancityReynolds https://t.co/6ew9NsAKqO

— Cam Talbot (@ctalbot33) January 4, 2023

After missing over two months of game action, Ondrej Palat was able to return to the New Jersey Devils lineup on Thursday night.

Dylan Guenther scores the Golden Goal to help Canada beat Czechia to repeat as World Junior champs. (TSN)

Toronto Maple Leafs’ defenseman Morgan Reilly and Olympic champion figure skater Tessa Virtue announced their engagement on Tuesday.

Kevin Hayes fulfills his late brother Jimmy’s dream and makes the All-Star team.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have had trouble holding onto leads as of late. Here is why.

The Montreal Canadiens may be forced to make a decision soon with Juraj Slafkovsky and his development.

The Detroit Red Wings‘ shaky goaltending is beginning to become a cause for concern.

New York Islanders’ forward Mat Barzal has been on fire this season, and is only getting better as of late.

After a great start to the season, Boston Bruins’ forward Jake DeBrusk has been placed on long-term injured reserve with a lower-body injury.