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San Jose Sharks focus on top defenseman at 2026 NHL Draft Combine

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 6, 2026, 4:15 AM

Last updated Jun 6, 2026

San Jose Sharks focus on top defenseman at 2026 NHL Draft Combine

Summary

At the 2026 NHL Draft Combine, San Jose Sharks are aiming to secure a top defenseman to enhance their roster. The team currently features standout players like Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith but lacks a premier blueliner to complement Sam Dickinson. Notable prospects Chase Reid, Keaton Verhoeff, and Alberts Smits highlighted their skills during interviews, with Reid emphasizing his two-way play and ability to adapt to various roles. Verhoeff expressed interest in playing alongside Celebrini, while Smits assessed his potential to become a leading defenseman in the NHL after the draft. The Sharks have the second overall pick, which could be used to select one of these defensemen.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•San Jose Sharks at the 2026 NHL Draft Combine
•Top defenseman prospect interviews include Chase Reid and Keaton Verhoeff
•Sharks have second overall pick in the draft
•Reid and Verhoeff highlight adaptability and two-way skills
•Smits aspires to become a leading NHL defenseman after the draft

Latest Updates

4:15 AMYahoo Sports — Dmen

What they're saying

"
The top defenseman available at the 2026 NHL Draft took the stage at the Combine. The San Jose Sharks are in need of their star blueliner of the future. Their core of Macklin Celebrini, Will Smith, Michael Misa, William Eklund, and Collin Graf is outstanding, but lacks a top blueliner to pair with Sam Dickinson. […] The post Dmen appeared first on San Jose Hockey Now.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

San Jose Sharks Hockey