Sharks draft Ryan Merkley 21st overall
The San Jose Sharks selected defenseman Ryan Merkley with the 21st pick in Friday's NHL draft.
Ryan Merkley
Position: Defense
Height: 5-foot-11
Weight: 170 lbs
Age: 17
Club: Guelph (OHL)
Nationality: Canadian
| GP | G | A | P | 5v5 G/PG | 5v5 P/PG | 5v5 GF% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 63 | 13 | 54 | 67 | 0.16 | 0.48 | 43.65 |
(Stats Courtesy: prospect-stats.com)
Few rearguards in the draft can excite fans with their skating and stick-handling ability more than Merkley, as the 17-year-old blue-liner had an outstanding offensive season for the Guelph Storm as a point-per-game player.
Perceived attitude issues and off-ice dramas aside, Merkley possesses the offensive skill set and foot speed to be a quality NHL defenseman. However, he has a relatively small frame, standing only 5-foot-11 and 170 pounds, so his effectiveness in his own end is a concern.
Regardless, Merkley's offensive upside and ability to quarterback a power play should have Sharks fans excited at what the 17-year-old can offer in the very near future.