The San Jose Sharks made a calculated move at the draft, trading away the 27th, 62nd and 120th selections to the Philadelphia Flyers in order to climb to the 21st overall slot.
With the pick, the Sharks chose Ryan Lin, a 5‑foot‑11 right‑handed defenseman who posted 14 goals and 57 points in 53 games for the Vancouver Giants last season and has pledged to join the University of Denver next year.
Analyst Keegan McNally highlighted Lin’s defensive steadiness and puck‑moving ability, labeling him a potential top‑four defenseman despite his modest size and offensive flash.
Expert Outlook
Elite Prospects concurs, noting Lin’s consistent defensive play and projecting him as a high‑probability top‑four defender at the professional level.
The Sharks’ next selection will come in the fourth round at No. 127, a pick that could further shape the team’s defensive depth.
If Lin translates his collegiate defensive instincts to the NHL, he could become a reliable staple on the Sharks’ back end, offering both shot‑blocking and transition play.