Vesce Gets Call from Sharks
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San Jose Sharks Executive Vice President and General Manager
Doug Wilson announced that the club has recalled former Cornell
forward Ryan Vesce from the Worcester Sharks, the team’s top
development affiliate in the American Hockey League.
Vesce will be replacing the injured Scott Nichol and could see
several games of action.
“We need a centerman with Scotty Nichol gone and we’ve
liked what Ryan Vesce has done,” Sharks Head Coach Todd
McLellan said. “He’s been up here in the past playing
on the fourth line role and he’s really responsible and takes
care of his linemates defensively. If we have to bump him up,
he’s shown he’s capable of playing with Jumbo (Joe
Thornton) and Heatley.”
Vesce was eligible to play against Rick Nash and the Columbus Blue
Jackets Blue Jackets at HP Pavilion at San Jose at 7:30 p.m. on
Saturday.
“I look at it the same way I look at any game, I hope to do
well and contribute to the team,” said Vesce.
“It’s the same game, but it’s going to be a
little quicker.”
Both Worcester and San Jose emphasize defensive responsibility and
Vesce said he knows exactly what is expected of him tonight.
“I know I have to be very good defensively and if I happen
to contribute offensively as well then it’s better,”
Vesce said.
With the postseason looming, the centerman admits the lockerrrom
atmosphere is a bit different than his previous call-ups.
“Now is the time where guys are getting ready for the
playoffs,” Vesce said. “Everyone is really focusing on
helping the team win, but I think there’s a special focus
come playoff time.”
The Lloyd Harbor, NY, native has played in eight games with San
Jose this season, posting five points (3-2=5). Prior to missing
seven games due to a lower body injury from Oct. 25 – Nov. 7,
he posted a four game point streak in San Jose. In 19 games with
Worcester this season, Vesce has posted 22 points (11-11=22).
