The approaching NHL draft on June 26-27 in Montreal has naturally raised anticipation in both coaches, prospective players, and devoted hockey fans. The Islanders will kick off the draft with the first overall pick beginning at 7 p.m. ET. 

 

San Jose’s initial pick is in the second round (43^rd). After a successful season, San Jose captured the 26^th position in the entry draft, a result of the order by overall team points. However, the Sharks begin in the second round after a trade between Tampa Bay for Dan Boyle, eventually transferring the 26^th first round pick to the Islanders. This will be the second lowest pick in Sharks’ history, next to last year’s initial 62^nd pick. Their remaining picks will be in the second (57^th), the fifth (146^th), and the seventh (206^th) rounds, totaling the least amount of picks (4) out of all 30 teams.

 

Their added pick (57^th) in the second round results from trading Craig Rivet to the Sabres last year. The Sharks’ third round pick now belongs to the Flyers, the fourth to the Predators, and the fifth to the Thrashers.

 

There is great eagerness this time around, as fans await the arrival of four new players to the Sharks franchise. Recall the 2006 draft when left wing Jamie McGinn was drafted as a second round pick (36^th overall). He has spent three seasons with the Worcester Sharks since then, recording 19 goals this past 2008-09 season despite splitting the season between Worcester and San Jose. Other players coming to Worcester from the draft include Frazer McLaren (2007), Thomas Greiss (2004), and Tom Cavanaugh (2001). 

 

Worcester fans should pay attention to the upcoming draft to keep an eye on potential Worcester Sharks players!

 

 

 

 

 

Final rankings foresee John Tavares, Matt Duchene, and Evander Kane as the top three overall domestic skaters.

 

Be sure to watch the NHL Draft Friday at 7 p.m. ET!
 

 

 

External links: