The Daily Chum: With the World Cup of Hockey done, the season inches closer

It’s time for the Sharks to come home. After Canada’s 2-1 victory to end the World Cup of Hockey, we should see all of the Sharks back in San Jose next week. It may be a bit longer than that until they get game action, but with the season fewer than two weeks away, we can just about say hockey is back.

Here are some storylines to follow as the season approaches:

When will we see Timo Meier?

The Sharks rookie is still sidelined with an undisclosed illness which likely hurts his chances of making the team right out of training camp. Can he recover in time?

Brent Burns contract talks?

Of all the players becoming unrestricted free agents at the end of this season, Burns should be the highest priority. There’s no reason he can’t sign with the team during, or even after the season, but it would make me feel a lot better to have that wrapped up.

Can other rookies make the cut?

With Meier out, the door is open for someone else to take his spot, if only temporarily. We’ve written about Kevin Labanc already, but he’s not the only one with a chance to beat the odds and make the team.

Who wins the backup goalie battle?

Aaron Dell is the favorite, but don’t count out Troy Grosenick if he has a strong camp. This could still be a race, albeit one Dell will likely win.

Growing chemistry on the defensive pairings

David Schlemko grew into the game after a tough start on Tuesday. Let’s see if he continues to improve through the rest of preseason play.

What are you keeping an eye on as the season gets closer?