Vlasic picked up an assist in Thursday's 5-2 win over the Canadiens.

EDGE Analysis

The defense-first blueliner has managed three apples in his last five games. It's been a down year for Vlasic, with 15 points in 57 games and a minus-9 rating. He's shooting less than he did in the previous two seasons, and has a career-low 1.4 percent success rate on his shots. It's unlikely Vlasic turns things around this year, but he will continue to play big minutes because of his defensive responsibility.

Vlasic picked up two assists in Sunday's 5-3 win over the Red Wings.

EDGE Analysis

The veteran blueliner has just one goal and 14 points through 53 games, and he hasn't even been a defensive stalwart this season. Without a huge turnaround down the stretch Vlasic's minus-11 rating would be the first time he's finished in the red since he was a wet-behind-the-ears 20-year-old in 2007-08. Despite the mediocre numbers, he still occupies a key top-four role for a Sharks squad in the hunt for the best record in the Western Conference, and Vlasic should see heavy minutes over the season's final weeks.

Vlasic (undisclosed) declared himself healthy and says he will return to the lineup for Saturday's game against the Coyotes, Curtis Pashelka of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

EDGE Analysis

Vlasic should improve a Sharks' blue line that has contributed to the team allowing six goals in each of the final four first-half games. The veteran blueliner has posted one of his worst seasons to date, posting just 11 points and a minus-13 rating over 42 games, but he still has some time to turn it around.

Vlasic (undisclosed) will not rejoin the lineup for the final game of the first half Tuesday against the Capitals, Isabelle Khurshudyan of The Washington Post reports.

EDGE Analysis

Vlasic will thus wait until after the All-Star break for his next opportunity to rejoin the lines Feb. 2 against the Coyotes. Given the extended rest he will receive and his game-time decision status for Monday and Tuesday, it seems likely the added rest will allow him to return. The lineup hasn't been announced for the contest, but the Sharks still have seven defensemen to choose from, though the absence of Vlasic and Erik Karlsson (undisclosed) continues to leave San Jose with a number of inexperienced members along the blue line.

Vlasic (undisclosed) is not in the lineup for Monday's road game in Florida, Paul Gackle of BANG Sports reports.

EDGE Analysis

It will be Vlasic's eight straight absence, his last action coming back on Jan. 2. San Jose plays again Tuesday in Washington, so Vlasic figures to be in tough to crack the lineup before the All-Star break. He'll most likely return after the All-Star break, perhaps as early as Feb. 2 versus the Coyotes.

Vlasic (undisclosed) is an option to play Monday in Florida, Paul Gackle of BANG sports reports.

EDGE Analysis

Vlasic hasn't played since Jan. 2 but seemingly has a chance to suit up Monday against the Panthers. If that is to happen, he will need to be removed from injured reserve. Be sure to check back closer to puck drop for confirmation of Vlasic's status. After Monday, the Sharks play once more (Tuesday in Washington) before the All-Star break.

Vlasic (undisclosed) was placed on injured reserve Sunday, per the NHL's official media site.

EDGE Analysis

Vlasic's placement on IR is retroactive to Jan. 2, so he could still return for Monday's game versus the Panthers, although it's unlikely. This will open up a roster spot for the Sharks to possibly recall a depth defenseman if Erik Karlsson (undisclosed) is unable to shake his injury by Monday's contest.

Vlasic (undisclosed) will remain out of commission Wednesday versus the Coyotes, Kevin Kurz of The Athletic reports.

EDGE Analysis

Vlasic remains on the mend and is set to miss his seventh consecutive contest Wednesday. The blueliner's absence hasn't halted the team's success, having won all six of the games without him. It's unclear exactly when the veteran blueliner will return to action, but the Sharks still have three games ahead before the All-Star break.

Vlasic (undisclosed) will miss another game Tuesday when the Sharks play host to the Penguins, Paul Gackle of The Mercury News reports.

EDGE Analysis

The Sharks have won all five games without Vlasic, which gives them the luxury of not having to rush him back at less than 100 percent. Pickles' offensive production is down -- 11 points in 42 games -- but he's an important minutes eater who brings energy and shot-blocking acumen to the table when healthy.

Vlasic (undisclosed) will not play Saturday versus the Senators, Kevin Kurz of The Athletic reports.

EDGE Analysis

Make that five straight absences for Vlasic, who has looked a bit lost this season with the arrival of Erik Karlsson. Pickles has scored only one goal to go along with 10 assists and a career-worst minus-13 rating. His next chance to play will arrive Tuesday for a home game against the Penguins.