Michael Misa, the highly anticipated young talent, is back on the ice and ready to make his mark. But this time, it's not with the San Jose Sharks, at least not yet. Misa, the No. 2 pick in 2025, will make his AHL debut this Friday, as the San Jose Barracuda take on the Tucson Roadrunners. And he's got a lot to say about his journey so far.
After a right ankle injury that kept him off the ice since early November, Misa is eager to get back into the game. He shared his thoughts on his recovery process, the mentorship he received, and his potential future with the Canadian national team. Let's dive into his insightful interview.
Getting Back on the Ice
Misa expressed his excitement about returning to the ice, stating, "It's been a grind, but I'm glad to be playing hockey again." He explained how the last few weeks were dedicated to focusing on his rehabilitation and getting himself back into shape.
The Injury and Recovery
Misa recounted the moment he sustained his injury during a San Jose Sharks morning skate. "It was a weird play along the boards, and my ankle shifted in an awkward way. I knew something was wrong right away." Despite the setback, Misa remained positive, crediting the rehab process and his youth for a quicker recovery.
AHL Conditioning Loan
Misa explained his decision to join the AHL on a conditioning loan, saying, "I haven't played in almost a month, so it makes sense to get some game time under my belt. I want to feel confident in my game and get back into the swing of things."
Rehab and Mentorship
During his recovery, Misa had the opportunity to work closely with Jeff Skinner, who has been a mentor to him. Skinner, who has walked a similar path, offered valuable insights and guidance. "He's been like a big brother to me, driving me to practices and games. It's been great to pick his brain about the early days of his career."
Frustrations and Support
Misa admitted that the injury and rehab process were a bit lonely at times, but he stayed positive. He found support in his teammates and especially in Tyler Toffoli, with whom he lives. Toffoli, a veteran player, shared his own experiences of going down to the AHL as an 18-year-old, assuring Misa that it's all part of the journey.
World Junior Championships
When asked about potentially representing Canada at the World Junior Championships, Misa expressed his excitement and honor. "It's a dream come true to represent your country and compete for a gold medal. I'd love to help Canada get back on track after the recent years."
Learning from the NHL
Misa reflected on his first few NHL games, stating that he felt he played well. "I was trying to understand the game and get my feet under me. The biggest challenge is the limited time with the puck. You have to make quick, smart decisions."
Team Culture and Welcome
Misa praised the Cuda team culture and the warm welcome he received. "I've hung out with these guys a lot during training camp, so it's great to be back with them. It's a fantastic feeling to see how strong their team is and the talent they have."
Exploring San Jose
Misa shared his experiences exploring San Jose, including attending a 49ers game. He even offered some advice to fans, suggesting they wear hats to protect themselves from the sun during games.
Looking Ahead
As Misa prepares for his AHL debut, he's focused on getting his game back on track. He aims to play with pace, get his legs moving, and feel confident on the ice. "I'm just excited to be back and contribute to the team."
Controversial Moment
Misa also opened up about a controversial moment in his career—a one-game suspension during a Teddy Toss game in the OHL. He admitted to letting his emotions get the better of him, but he's learned from it. "I won't make that mistake again. I'll keep my stick on the ice this time."
Final Thoughts
Misa's journey back to the ice is an inspiring one, filled with mentorship, support, and a determination to learn and grow. As he embarks on his AHL debut, we can't wait to see what the future holds for this talented young player. What are your thoughts on Misa's story? Do you think he'll make a successful return to the NHL? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments below!
