SAN JOSE >> The Sharks have been getting vital contributions from forward Collin Graf and defenseman Shakir Mukhamadullin in recent games, and both appear to be on track to become full-time NHL players next season.

But getting some AHL playoff experience along the way would not hurt either rookie’s development, and both Graf and Mukhamadullin are enthusiastic about potentially rejoining the San Jose Barracuda next month for what the Sharks hope will be a long postseason run for their top minor league affiliate.

The Sharks sent Graf and Mukhamadullin down to the Barracuda just before the NHL trade deadline on March 7 to ensure they would be eligible for the Calder Cup playoffs, which begin in less than a month. Barring a total collapse, the Barracuda will make the postseason for the first time since 2021.

Graf came into Saturday night’s Sharks game against the New York Rangers with six points in his last nine games and is now in a top-six forward role. Just as importantly, Graf, 22, has been playing in all situations, both as a leading penalty killer and on the second power play unit, helping him average just over 17 minutes in ice time per game in that time.

Mukhamadullin had a career-high 25:26 in ice time Thursday in the Sharks’ 6-5 shootout win over the Toronto Maple Leafs. Mukhamadullin, 23, played over 20 minutes in nine of his last 10 NHL games before Saturday. He has adjusted well to the increased role after Jake Walman was traded to the Edmonton Oilers earlier this month.

Mukhamadullin had nine points in 21 games with the Barracuda this season before the Sharks recalled him in December. While still in the New Jersey Devils organization, Mukhamadullin played in three AHL playoff games for the Utica Comets in 2022.

“Everyone wants to play in the playoffs,” Mukhamadullin said. “If they need me to go (to the Barracuda), then for sure I would go there and play, and try to help the team win the Cup.”

Graf and Mukhamadullin would be massive additions to the Barracuda, which has sputtered recently, winning just four of its last 10 games before Saturday.