In a preseason matchup that turned heads on Friday night, Ethan Cardwell stole the show for the San Jose Sharks, scoring three goals in a decisive 4-1 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena. The 22-year-old forward, still auditioning for a permanent spot on the NHL roster, wasted no time asserting himself against a familiar Pacific Division rival. His hat trick came on October 3, marking a breakout performance just days into the exhibition schedule.
Cardwell's goals were spaced out across the game, starting with a quick strike in the first period that set the tone. Indeed, his second tally midway through the second built on the momentum, and he capped it off with an empty-netter late in the third. Teammate Pavol Regenda was right there with him, dishing out four assists to orchestrate the offense. Regenda, another bubble player fighting for ice time, looked sharp all evening, his vision and playmaking evident in every shift. The Sharks' defense held firm, limiting Vegas to just one goal despite the Golden Knights' pushback in the later frames.
However, this wasn't just about the scoresheet for Cardwell. Drafted by San Jose in the fourth round back in 2021, he's been climbing the ranks steadily—from junior hockey with the Barrie Colts to stints with the AHL's San Jose Barracuda. His recall last season hinted at potential, but nights like this scream opportunity. The win improves the Sharks' preseason record, though it's early, and coach Ryan Warsofsky will have plenty to chew on as cuts loom. Moreover, with veterans like Logan Couture sidelined, young guns like Cardwell and Regenda are getting extended looks.
Indeed, the energy from the line was palpable, a mix of grit and skill that could translate to the regular season. Yet Vegas, defending champs not so long ago, seemed off their game, perhaps still shaking off the offseason rust. For San Jose, it's a morale boost amid a rebuilding phase that's tested patience.
As training camp winds down, one can't help but wonder how performances like Cardwell's will shape the final roster decisions.