The San Jose Sharks just got a massive stroke of luck. Heading into Tuesday's draft lottery, they were projected to pick ninth overall. But when the ping-pong balls settled, they jumped all the way to the No. 2 spot—a game-changing swing for a franchise in the middle of a rebuild.
The Toronto Maple Leafs, meanwhile, won the lottery and will select first overall at the 2026 NHL Draft, set for June 26-27 in Buffalo. That leaves the Sharks with a prime opportunity to land a franchise-altering talent.
"It's a good day for the organization," Sharks GM Mike Grier said after the lottery, and he wasn't wrong. With the second pick, San Jose has the kind of flexibility that can accelerate a rebuild.
So who might Grier and his scouting staff target? Here's a look at seven prospects worth considering at No. 2.
1. Gavin McKenna (LW) – Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)
McKenna is widely regarded as the consensus No. 1 pick, but he's not a lock like previous top prospects Matthew Schaefer, Macklin Celebrini, or Connor Bedard. If Toronto passes on him, the Sharks would be hard-pressed to ignore the "most dynamic offensive playmaker of this draft class." A future first-line winger, McKenna's creativity and scoring touch could be the spark San Jose's forward group desperately needs.
2. Matthew Schaefer (D) – Erie Otters (OHL)
If McKenna goes first, Schaefer becomes the obvious choice. An elite two-way defenseman with exceptional skating and hockey IQ, he's the kind of anchor a blue line can be built around. Think Cale Makar-lite—a player who can log big minutes and drive offense from the back end.
3. James Hagens (C) – Boston College (NCAA)
Hagens is a dynamic center with high-end playmaking ability. He's already shown he can compete against older competition in college hockey, and his vision and hockey sense make him a potential top-line pivot. For a Sharks team that's thin down the middle, Hagens could be a perfect fit.
4. Porter Martone (RW) – Brampton Steelheads (OHL)
Martone is a power forward with size, skill, and a mean streak. He's the type of player who can create space for linemates and finish around the net. In a division full of big, physical teams, Martone's style would be a welcome addition to San Jose's lineup.
5. Michael Misa (C/LW) – Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
Misa is a versatile forward who can play center or wing. He's got excellent speed and a lethal shot, making him a threat on the rush and the power play. His ability to adapt to different roles would give Grier flexibility in building out the roster.
6. Anton Frondell (C) – Djurgårdens IF (Sweden)
Frondell is a skilled two-way center with a pro-ready frame. He's already playing against men in the Swedish Hockey League, which bodes well for his transition to North America. His responsible defensive game combined with offensive upside makes him a safe, high-floor pick.
7. Logan Hensler (D) – University of Wisconsin (NCAA)
Hensler is a big, mobile defenseman who excels in transition. He's got a booming shot from the point and the poise to quarterback a power play. With Schaefer likely off the board, Hensler could be the Sharks' top defensive target and a long-term partner for a young blueliner like Shakir Mukhamadullin.
The Sharks are in an enviable position. Whether they go with a dynamic forward like McKenna or a foundational defenseman like Schaefer, the No. 2 pick gives them a chance to add a cornerstone piece. And for a team that's been stockpiling assets, this could be the draft that truly turns the tide in San Jose.