Igor Chernyshov

April 2026 – Chernyshov has been one of the most impressive rookie stories of the year. The 33rd-overall pick has produced 33 points through 41 AHL games with the Barracuda, and since his January reassignment he added roughly 10 points in 16 more games. His first NHL call-up yielded three goals and eight points in 15 games alongside Macklin Celebrini, and his production has remained steady regardless of league context or usage.

Now back for a second stint during a playoff push for the SJ, Chernyshov continues to showcase a powerful stride, high-end puck skills, and an advanced delay game. He does not need ideal deployment to impact play, and there’s a strong chance he sticks for good before long. He’s making a strong case at present, highlighted by a recent two-goal outing in a competitive matchup against a Columbus Blue Jackets team equally desperate to make the playoffs, a clear breakout moment in his campaign.

His optimal long-term fit in the lineup is still taking shape, but he profiles as a winger who could benefit from time next to either Celebrini or Misa, whether as a net-front finisher for their playmaking or as a forechecking presence to initiate the cycle. Chernyshov has made a legitimate case to remain in the NHL due to his pro-ready game and unique skill set, and he should play an important role for the club down the stretch. Ryan Downey

September 2025 – Chernyshov is a prospect who has been a steady incline since leading off the second round of last year’s draft. The skill is evident after coming over to North America from the MHL, where he dominated in his draft-plus-one season. His near goal-per-game performance and 55 points in his 23 games was an example of him outgrowing the junior game. This may have to do with his sheer size at 6-3, but he was dominant for the Saginaw Spirit.

Chernyshov’s game is pro-ready. His shot is powerful and he has the ability to dish the puck to create plays. He sees the ice very well and knows how to use his size in a way young players are not always able to realize. With a few games of pro experience under his belt already, Chernyshov could find himself on a fast track to make the NHL roster out of camp. In the case he goes back to the Barracuda at the conclusion of training camp, he will almost certainly earn a call-up if he continues on his trajectory. If not early in the season, later on when the young players get a look. Sean Crocker

April 2025 – The San Jose Sharks assigned Chernyshov to the American Hockey League to play with their affiliate San Jose Barracuda following the end of his 2024-25 season with the Ontario Hockey League Saginaw Spirit. Mark Henry

August 2024 – The San Jose Sharks signed Chernyshov to a three-year, entry-level contract. Mark Henry

June 2024 – Chernyshov was selected in the second round, 33rd overall, by the San Jose Sharks in the 2024 NHL Draft. Hadi Kalakeche

November 2023 – Chernyshov’s MHL tape is just unfair. He bullies opponents along the boards, easily strips them of possession, and makes small-area passes to open teammates easily and accurately, leaving his opponents scrambling to keep up. He can’t be caught once in open ice, especially after three of his large strides.

In the KHL, much of the same remains, but he has also shown a lot of adaptability despite the limited ice time. When he can’t out-muscle and out-speed his opponents, he has shown glimpses of an off-puck game that helps him support his teammates’ routes. He tracks back, finds his check, and sticks to him. He’s still fairly raw, with a toolkit that sees him use many of his tools in a not-yet-cohesive way, but the top-six upside is evident. Hadi Kalakeche (November rankings: 12th overall)