#20 – San Jose Sharks
Apr 1, 2014; San Jose, CA, USA; San Jose Sharks head coach
Todd McLellanbehind his team on the bench during the third period against the Edmonton Oilers at SAP Center at San Jose. San Jose won 5-4. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports
The Sharks are a team in limbo. They signed their veteran forwards to contract extensions prior to the post-season, but another early exit (this time in remarkable fashion) has the team questioning its direction. They have already rid themselves of veteran blueliner Dan Boyle, and more changes could be on the way.
The Sharks system is not deep, and they can use help anywhere and everywhere.
However, the biggest need might be a shutdown defenseman, and that player is avaialable at this point.
Travis Sanheim of the Calgary Hitmen is one of the fastest risers in the draft. He has played only one season of major junior and once the team started giving him quality ice time, he responded in remarkable fashion. He had just 2 points in his first 31 games, but finished with 29 points in 67 games and was one of the top players for Team Canada’s under 18 team.
He is 6’3″ and will play at about 210-220 lbs when he fills out. He will definitely need another year of junior before even being considered for NHL duty, given his late blooming.