It came as a big surprise that Mike Hoffman would be used on the first line in the very first game of the season with the Sharks.

The forward is on the decline and this season represents his last chance to prove he still belongs in the NHL, so it’s a golden opportunity for him.

It’s not very surprising, but the Sharks’ coach eventually saw the same thing as Martin St-Louis, and Mike has been relegated to the 4th line.

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The Sharks aren’t a strong team, and yet, Hoffman has already found himself in the bottom 6. It’s a real wake-up call for him, and he better step up if he hopes to continue his career beyond this season.