San Jose Sharks Open to Trading No. 2 Overall NHL Draft Pick

San Jose Sharks general manager Mike Grier has received multiple offers for the No. 2 overall pick in this week’s NHL Draft in Buffalo, including one proposal he described as “real interesting,” according to Stephen Whyno of the Associated Press. Grier is currently weighing these offers as the team evaluates whether to keep the selection or trade it for established talent.

Who could the Sharks select at No. 2?

The No. 2 overall selection allows the Sharks to choose either Gavin McKenna or Ivar Stenberg, depending on the Toronto Maple Leafs’ choice at No. 1. While McKenna is the expected pick for Toronto, TSN’s 2026 Final NHL Draft Ranking showed a split in preference among its 10-person panel.

According to the TSN rankings, McKenna received five first-place votes, while Stenberg received three. If the Sharks hold the pick, it would mark the third consecutive year the team has selected within the top two, following the 2024 selection of Macklin Celebrini first overall and Michael Misa second last summer.

Did You Know? The San Jose Sharks secured the No. 2 overall pick in last month’s NHL Draft Lottery despite entering the draw with only the ninth-best odds.

What is the status of the No. 9 overall pick?

Grier confirmed via a Zoom call Wednesday that the team is also receiving calls regarding the No. 9 overall pick. This selection was acquired from the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday in a deal involving 23-year-old forward William Eklund.

The No. 9 pick had previously moved to Ottawa on Sunday as part of a “blockbuster” trade for Brady Tkachuk. Regarding the Eklund trade, Grier stated that Eklund was not a player the Sharks were actively shopping.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that Grier is balancing the immediate need for veteran stability against the long-term value of elite prospects. By entertaining offers for both the No. 2 and No. 9 picks, the Sharks are leveraging their draft capital to potentially accelerate a rebuild that has already shown significant statistical momentum.

What would it take to trade the No. 2 pick?

TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston reported during Tuesday’s “Insider Trading” that there has been considerable interest in both of San Jose’s picks. Johnston noted that Grier is maintaining an open mind and keeping his phone on ahead of Friday’s draft.

Mike Grier shares Sharks' NHL draft mentality after William Eklund trade | NBCS California

However, the asking price is high. Johnston stated that the Sharks require a return equivalent to a top-line forward or a top-pairing defenseman still in the prime of their career to part with the No. 2 selection.

How does this fit the Sharks’ recent trajectory?

The team has seen a significant increase in on-ice performance. San Jose finished last season with 86 points, narrowly missing the playoffs, which represents a 34-point improvement over the 52 points they tallied in 2024-25.

The Sharks also own the No. 27 selection this week. Thomas Drance of The Athletic pointed out that if San Jose keeps all three first-round picks, it will total 10 first-round selections made in the five years since Grier became general manager.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the likely candidates for the No. 2 overall pick?
Depending on the Toronto Maple Leafs’ selection at No. 1, the Sharks could select Gavin McKenna or Ivar Stenberg.

What is Mike Grier’s requirement for trading the No. 2 pick?
According to Chris Johnston, Grier is looking for a return of a top-pairing defenseman or a top-line forward who is still in the prime of their career.

How did the Sharks acquire the No. 9 overall pick?
The Sharks received the pick from the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday in a trade involving forward William Eklund.

Should the San Jose Sharks prioritize a prime veteran over a top prospect to push for a playoff spot next season?