The Sharks' blue line is about to get a much-needed reinforcement.
Radim Simek, who has been out with an ACL/MCL injury since March 12, was recalled Monday, general manager Doug Wilson announced. Forward Lean Bergmann also was recalled.
Simek made a big impact for the Sharks last season after being recalled in December. The 27-year-old helped the Sharks go 29-9-3 when he was in the lineup while being an anchor for Brent Burns.
With our All Access Daily newsletter, stay in the game with the latest updates on your beloved Bay Area and California sports teams!
SIGN UP HERE Since Simek has been out, the Sharks have struggled on the blue line, going 17-28-2 in both regular season and the playoffs without Simek.
His return should give a big boost to the Sharks' blue line, especially as the team looks to claw its way out of the early-season hole they have dug. The Sharks are 4-10-1 with a -20 goal differential. They have struggled at even strength and Simek's return should help the Sharks limit their opponent's offensive chances.
Last season, the Sharks allowed a lower rate of shots, shot attempts and chances when the Czech defenseman was on the ice. This season, the Sharks have allowed 31.3 shots against this season and the second-most goals (56) in the NHL. While the Sharks' penalty kill is the best in the league, their defense has been leaky at full strength, a problem Simek can help correct.
[RELATED: Sharks need to find swagger, now must 'look in mirror']
San Jose Sharks
Find the latest San Jose Sharks news, highlights, analysis and more with NBC Sports Bay Area and California.
The Sharks need to turn things around in a hurry, and they are hoping Simek's return will give them the boost they need.
