Sheng’s Weekend: Hertl, Wilson Still Haven’t Talked

Tomas Hertl is in Chicago for the NHL Player Media Tour and answered questions about his future with the San Jose Sharks.

“I’m not thinking about what will happen next season, will the Sharks extend me or if they don’t want me there. I’m just going to play my best hockey and help my teammates,” Hertl told NHL.com.

I guess it’s a good sign that Hertl is in Chicago, representing the San Jose Sharks nationally? Hopefully, it’s not for the last time. We’ll see what happens when training camp starts next week.

At San Jose Hockey Now…

The San Jose Sharks lost the first game of the 2021 Rookie Faceoff Tournament 8-4 to the Anaheim Ducks.

Regardless, Jasper Weatherby, who’s in a battle with Scott Reedy, Dylan Gambrell, and Lane Pederson for the fourth-line center role in San Jose, impressed. Here’s a little bit, with some exclusive stats from SPORTLOGiQ, about this competition plus some notes about Tristen Robins and Santeri Hatakka:

Weatherby, Reedy on Competing for 4C in San Jose; Notes on Hatakka, Robins

Mario Ferraro joins the San Jose Hockey Now Podcast to talk about teammates saying he’s the loudest and smelliest San Jose Sharks player — whether or not Evander Kane is welcome back to the Sharks locker room — his favorite Italian restaurant in the Bay Area — and more:

SJHN Podcast: Ferraro on How He’s Like Jumbo, Is Kane Welcome Back?

The Locked On Sharks guys preview the 2021 Rookie Faceoff Tournament:

Sharks’ Rookie Tournament Preview

The Sharks’ national TV schedule has been released:

Sharks National TV Schedule Released

Evander Kane talks to SportsCenter about gambling allegations and locker room discord:

UPDATED: Kane Talks to SportsCenter About Gambling Allegations, Locker Room Discord

Around the NHL…

Patrick Kane says he didn’t know in 2010 about the Brad Aldrich sexual assault allegations. (ESPN)

Zdeno Chara has returned to the New York Islanders:

Back Where it All Started! Zdeno Chara Signs 1-Year Deal with Islanders

Is Evgenii Dadonov the answer to the Vegas Golden Knights’ power play woes?

Is Dadonov answer to Vegas Golden Knights’ power play woes?

“It’s just hockey” to Florida Panthers super rookie Spencer Knight.

‘It’s just hockey’ to Florida Panthers rookie Spencer Knight

Connor McDavid asks for consistency from NHL referees. (The Athletic)

Jett Woo brings growth, culture, and determination to Vancouver Canucks rookie camp.

Jett Woo Brings Growth, Culture, Determination to Canucks Rookie Camp

Dru Krebs of the Washington Capitals talks hockey family, chasing NHL:

‘In The Genes’: Capitals’ Krebs Talks Hockey Family, Skating, Chasing NHL

In-limbo Jack Eichel will report to the Buffalo Sabres’ pre-camp physical. (AP)

Morgan Frost hoping the third time’s the charm in push to make Philadelphia Flyers:

Morgan Frost hoping third time’s the charm in push to make Flyers roster

A confident Filip Hallander begins quest to make the Pittsburgh Penguins:

Confident Hallander Begins Penguins Quest: ‘I am Here to Take a Spot’ | PHN+

The 2022 NHL Draft will be held on Jul. 7 and 8. (NHL)

Taylor Hall talks about the hole on the Boston Bruins without departed center David Krejci:

Boston Bruins’ Hall on Krejci: ‘I’m Sure He’s Having A Blast’

Five takeaways from the Detroit Red Wings’ 5-2 loss to St. Louis at Traverse City:

Five Takeaways from Red Wings’ 5-2 loss to St. Louis at NHL Prospects Tournament

Jesse Montano talks Colorado Avalanche impressions from the Rookie Faceoff:

Guest post: Jesse Montano on Avs, from Arizona

Nathan MacKinnon says he’s not always a health nut and sometimes goes to In-N-Out after games. “I’m a regular guy. I’m not crazy.” pic.twitter.com/PhQEHgCzgF

— Stephen Whyno (@SWhyno) September 16, 2021