How coach Ryan Warsofsky is evolving as Sharks seek to end playoff drought

San Jose Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky sits down with NBC Sports California’s Natalie Noury to preview the 2026-27 NHL season.

The Sharks are in uncharted territory. They’re looking to be competitive for the first time in several years.

The Stanley Cup playoffs are the expectation for everyone in the building, and coach Ryan Warsofsky is in charge of keeping the group on track.

Warsofsky caught up with NBC Sports California's Natalie Noury at Sharks Media Day to discuss his evolution over the years.

"As people have seen, I'm an emotional coach," Warsofsky told Noury. "I wear my heart on my sleeve. I get frustrated at times, and sometimes it gets the best of me. I learned from those experiences in my first year. People are watching everything you do, and I have to remember that more than others. I also can't try to be someone I'm not."

The Sharks finished 39-35 last season, only four points shy of a playoff appearance. Warsfsky looks to flip the script this season.

"There are certainly things that we need to do better than we did last year," Warsofsky admitted. "We're going to stick to our process and be where our feet are."

Continuity plays to the Sharks' advantage this year. Many core members of the team will be returning, which should have everyone excited about the future.

"I feel more comfortable than ever heading into my third year," Warsofsky stated. "These guys know my expectations and how I operate. This is an exciting time for the organization. The pressure is rising, but that's a privilege in my opinion."

The veterans on this squad have made transitioning easy for the young guys. Warsofsky admits that their presence has also helped him as a coach.

"Barclay Goodrow and Tyler Toffoli ... I've leaned on those guys a lot," Warsofsky concluded. "It's also been nice to work with the youth. We're all growing together in a sense. There's a great blend of youth and veteran guys that can help each other."

It will take everyone on the Sharks' roster to make it back to the postseason. Expectations are high, but this group has a leader who's ready to weather the storm.

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