The San Jose Sharks are weighing the future of their second overall selection in the 2026 NHL draft, a move that could reshape the franchise’s defensive outlook. The last time a top‑five selection shifted after the draft lottery occurred in 2008, underscoring the rarity of such moves.
General manager Mike Grier has indicated he is open to either flipping the pick for a higher asset or holding onto it if the right offer does not materialize.
Two distinct pathways dominate the conversation: a trade‑back scenario that would bring a top defensive prospect and immediate blueline reinforcement, or a blockbuster deal that would acquire an established star in exchange for the draft capital.
Potential Trade Mechanics
The Sharks’ forward group is stacked, but the defense remains thin, with only Dmitry Orlov and Sam Dickinson under contract for next season, prompting the front office to explore options that could fill the gap.
Among the prospects on the radar are wingers Gavin McKenna and Ivar Stenberg, while blueline candidates such as Chase Reid, Carson Carels, Keaton Verhoeff and Alberts Smits are being evaluated for their fit in a potential trade package.
A concrete example floated in recent speculation involves sending the No. 2 pick to the Chicago Blackhawks for the fourth overall slot, defenseman Kevin Korchinski and the Blackhawks’ 2026 second‑rounder (pick 34).