It's safe to say that Hasso Plattner is done with losing, even if it means missing out on hockey's top-rated prospect.
Speaking to the media for the first time in many years, San Jose Sharks The owner poured out all his feelings over the past few seasons, sharing his biggest regrets and his opinion on the direction of the team.
But one thing has become clear: Plattner hates losing and has no intention of backing out to ensure the Sharks have the No. 1 pick in the NHL draft, which is expected to be the highly touted Gavin McKenna.
The last six seasons have been a major change of pace for the Sharks from 1997-2019, when the team missed the playoffs twice.
This led to a regime change in 2022 when Mike Grier was hired as general manager to replace Doug Wilson. While the team hasn't had success in recent years, Plattner is excited about the team's young homegrown talent, especially the 2024 No. 1 overall pick. McLean Celebrini.
“I’m so happy for Celebrini,” he said. “How he can do everything, but he does everything possible for other players, for his partners on the ice. “I think you (the media) see it and report it, and he’s a leader.”
Celebrini is joined by youngsters Will Smith and William Eklund in the turquoise jersey, while prospects Michael Misa and Sam Dickinson are yet to make the squad.
Plattner has high hopes for the young core, particularly Dickinson, as he pursues the owner's “core goal” of attracting star defenders.
“Dickinson was so good that I was bummed he wasn't included in the game,” Plattner added. “But there’s a reason for it, and I accept that.”
Despite the disappointment, the owner isn't too concerned about how Dickinson is going to start the year. He noted dramatic improvements in the play of Eklund and Smith, but admitted the focus is on next season and beyond.
“No,” Plattner said when asked if he expects to make the playoffs this season. “Next year we should be close. Dickinson will be fully occupied and Misa will be close to the same level as Celebrini. We shouldn’t put too much pressure on them this year.”
Plattner is excited about the process. But he knows only time will tell whether the Sharks' rebuild has been successful.
“We are on the right track, whether we achieve what I want, we will see.”
