Former Sharks prospect getting shot with Senators: “He’s learning fast”

Los Angeles Kings left wing Ilya Kovalchuk, right, blocks a shot with his stick as Ottawa Senators left wing Rudolfs Balcers, left, battles in front of the net with goaltender Jonathan Quick during the first period of Thursday’s game in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)SAN JOSE — Rudolfs Balcers walked into SAP Center on Friday afternoon — like he has so many times before — and made his way to the hallway that houses the dressing rooms for both visiting NHL teams and the San Jose Barracuda, the Sharks’ AHL affiliate.

If he was still a member of the Sharks’ organization, Balcers may have been walking the few extra steps it takes to get to the Barracuda’s room for its game that night.…