The Sharks have secured a top-four pick in the 2024 NHL Draft after a 5-2 loss to the Arizona Coyotes at SAP Center. Despite their struggles this season, with this loss, the Sharks cannot catch the Anaheim Ducks in the standings and will finish no higher than 31st overall, ensuring a top-four selection.
This season has been tough for the Sharks, as they currently hold the worst record in the league with only 44 points and four games remaining. However, despite their struggles, the odds are in their favor for a high draft pick, with an 18.5-percent chance at the first overall selection. With this potential top pick on offer, there is hope for a brighter future for the team.
The Sharks have never had the first overall pick in their history, coming closest with a second overall selection in the past. While a high draft pick offers hope for the future, there is still much work to be done before returning to playoff contention. They have not made it to the postseason in four consecutive years, marking a significant drought for the team.
However, there are some promising young players like William Eklund and Collin Graf who can help turn things around for San Jose. Eklund was picked seventh overall in last year’s draft and has shown promise on ice so far. He is being considered one of San Jose’s building blocks moving forward. With these talented young players and a high draft pick on offer, there is reason to believe that San Jose can build a competitive team once again.
Overall, while this season has been tough for San Jose fans and management alike, securing that top-four spot guarantees them access to one of
