How NHL Scouts Grade Sharks’ 2023 Draft?

NASHVILLE — What were NHL scouts thinking as the San Jose Sharks made their 9 picks in the 2023 NHL Draft?

I asked three NHL scouts from outside the San Jose Sharks organization for their thoughts and grades.

Fourth-overall selection Will Smith is a potential top-of-the-lineup 6-foot-0 center.

“High-end skill, high-end offensive brain, very creative,” Scout #1 told San Jose Hockey Now in May. “First shot sniper, can wire pucks on net, can make high-end plays. Can do it with pace.”

Scouts Talk Michkov, Carlsson, Smith’s Strengths, Weaknesses

No. 26 Quentin Musty is a 6-foot-2 winger who can throw his size and skill around.

“Dangerous offensive threat. Can pass or shoot. Real dangerous shot. Plays hard, had a few fights this year. Actually injured himself fighting [fellow first-rounder Calum] Ritchie this year. Hurt his hand,” Scout #2 said. “Can be a little moody though. Inconsistent, but tons of talent.”

Scout #3 knows teams were trying to jump up to beat the San Jose Sharks to Musty: “I know teams were looking to trade up for Musty.”

No. 36 overall selection Kasper Halttunen is another hulking winger, standing at 6-foot-3 and armed with a big shot.

Read the Full Article at NBC Sports Bay Area