The San Jose Sharks have signed 2018 first-round pick Ryan Merkley to an entry-level contract, the team announced on Wednesday.
The 17-year-old defenceman was selected with the 21st-overall pick in June’s draft.
“Ryan was one of the most talented players at his position in this year’s draft and we were very excited to add him to our organization,” Sharks general manager Doug Wilson said in a team statement. “We were impressed with the way he handled himself as the youngest player at our summer development camp and feel that he has a whole new level he has yet to tap into. Ryan has the potential to be a difference maker at the NHL level and we are looking forward to watching his development this season.”
Merkley recorded 13 goals and 67 points in 63 games with the OHL’s Guelph Storm in 2017-18, leading all Guelph blue-liners and ranking third amongst all OHL defenceman in points. In six playoff games, Merkley led all Storm blue-liners in points (one goal, five assists) and led the team in penalty minutes (10) and shots on goal (25).
July 18, 2018
San Jose Sharks
