Top Prospects for San Jose Sharks

NHL.com is providing in-depth prospect analysis for each of its 30 teams throughout August. Today, the San Jose Sharks.

The San Jose Sharks didn’t have a first- or third-round pick in the 2016 NHL Draft but spent the prior two years acquiring extra picks and restocking with young talent.

The Sharks had nine draft picks in 2015, including right wing Timo Meier, the No. 9 selection. They had eight selections in 2014, highlighted by left wing Nikolay Goldobin at No. 27.

“I think our system is really well replenished, and I think there’s opportunity for young guys,” general manager Doug Wilson said. “The competition is something we’re really looking forward to in September.”

Here are the Sharks’ top five prospects, according to NHL.com:

1. Timo Meier, RW

How acquired: Selected with No. 9 pick in 2015 NHL Draft

Last season: Halifax (QMJHL): 23 GP, 11-25-36; Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL): 29 GP, 23-28-51

Meier, 19, made a strong push to secure a spot on the Sharks roster out of training camp last season. His combination of size (6-foot-1, 209 pounds), strength and speed could have him ready to make the jump; the question is whether Wilson and Sharks coach Peter DeBoer believe Meier needs a few weeks or months with the San Jose Barracuda of the American Hockey League to ease his transition from the junior level.

“I think you get more mature as you get older,” Meier said during Sharks development camp in July. “I think I learned a lot last season, last year in the camp, in the NHL camp with the big guys. I had a good season last year.”

Projected NHL arrival: This season

2. Markus …

continue reading in source sharks.nhl.com