Earlier today, San Jose Sharks beat writer, Curtis Pashelka, reported on the fact that goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen had returned to practice with the team, and could return as early as tomorrow night against the Philadelphia Flyers. The Sharks have seemingly confirmed that to be the case, as they announce goaltender Magnus Chrona has been sent down to their AHL affiliate, the San Jose Barracuda.
Called up a few days ago to backup Mackenzie Blackwood in the team’s game against the Pittsburgh Penguins, Chrona would actually find himself in the net for much of the game, as Blackwood was pulled a little before halfway through after giving up six goals on 18 shots. Chrona faired a bit better, although not by much, as he was on the hook for four goals on 17 shots against.
It was a rude awakening for a young goaltender who had only come to the organization less than a year ago, signing as a college-free agent out of the University of Denver. Nevertheless, he is not returning to a positive situation in the AHL either, as the Barracuda hold a 2-4-3 record early in the year, with Chrona garnering a .871 SV% and a 4.82 GAA in four games played.
As the Sharks continue to seek out their first win of the year against Philadelphia tomorrow night, they will at least have the benefit of both their regular netminders being able to play. Given that both Kahkonen and Blackwood have allowed six goals in less than 20 shots in each of their most recent starts, it remains to be seen which goaltender will eventually get the nod to start.