San Jose Sharks 2021 NHL Draft Review

[@MrVisde]

Eklund falling to #7 reminds me of the time Aaron Rodgers fell in the draft. I think he has a great shot of making it. He projects to be a top 6 forward. If he’s not ready for top 6 ice time, he could play on the 3rd or 4th lines if he’s solid enough defensively (I believe he is, or at least isn’t a liability). Marleau broke into the league as a 3rd liner with some PP time at 18 years old.

[@GrahamSlam]

Eklund is the best player in the draft inn my opinion. Huge win for the Sharks. I like taking Gaudreau at 81, but I read an article where at least one scout said he projects as a fringe NHL backup.

[@professorhockey]

That’s certainly a possibility, we will really know more next year after he gets to actually play a season in the ohl

[@Ghostcharm]

good evening professor sorry I am late. i did my homework though and I am very excited about eklund

[@TidusMino]

Amazing analysis dude!

[@DavidMartinez-cq3hx]

New subscriber here! Nice review of all the Sharks draft picks. It sounds like Eklund is a sure fire pick. What are your thoughts of Ryan Merkley making the roster this season?

[@professorhockey]

Honestly, I don’t think he will make it. He hasn’t been nearly as impressive as hoped at the AHL level, hopefully that will change next year.

[@DavidMartinez-cq3hx]

@@professorhockey do you think he never makes it or is just not ready to make the next step. I know that I have read that his offensive skills are high but his defensive skills are low. Also he had a bad attitude problem at one time, is that still a issue? Thanks professor😊

[@professorhockey]

At this point, I’m not sure. He needs to take that big step forward defensively this year or max next year, otherwise it isn’t going to happen.

[@philcoyle1655]

Eklund as advertised, Laroque Guryev still around, Cardwell a keeper.

[@dumadustin]

Which players do you have the highest hope for? Other than Eklund of course.

[@professorhockey]

Of these drafted players? Gaudreau for sure

[@dumadustin]

@@professorhockey Same! Cardwell and Gilmartin seem like interesting players that will hopefully pan out

[@MrVisde]

I’ve seen some clips of Guryev. Reminds me a lot of Douglas Murray. The Sharks could use a Crankshaft 2.0 🤞