The Sharks officially locked up one of their young stars.
San Jose announced it signed 2023 first-round NHL draft pick Will Smith to an entry-level contract.
The young center shared a message for Sharks fans on the team's official X account.
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"Hey Sharks fans, just want to say I've got some exciting news," Smith said. "I just signed my entry-level deal and I can't wait to be a part of the Sharks organization."
Sharks general manager Mike Grier, in a statement, said:
“We felt that this is the next best step for his development to becoming a full-time NHL player, and we are looking forward to seeing him compete at the highest level of hockey.”
San Jose Sharks
Smith also celebrated the news by posting a video on Instagram which highlighted the organization's rich history.
The Bay Area News Group's Curtis Pashelka reported, citing a source, the details of Smith's contract.
San Jose selected Smith with the No. 4 pick in last year's draft as its first of two first-round selections with left wing Quentin Musty (No. 26 overall).
Now Smith, Musty, and San Jose's presumed 2024 No. 1 overall pick, Macklin Celebrini, will have the chance to form the Sharks' next core of homegrown stars.
