San Jose Sharks: James Sheppard Looking for Career Year in 2014-2015

On August 7, 2011 the Sharks acquired James Sheppard for a third draft round pick. Doug Wilson liked his speed and his physicality and hoped that Sheppard would revitalize his career in San Jose. Mr. Sheppard has done that in San Jose and has helped the third line find success in the 2013-2014 season.

2013-2014 review

James Sheppard re-signed with the Sharks for one more year in Teal. Sheppard played in 67 games, scoring 4 goals and 16 assists. However, in the playoffs, he had 2 goals and 4 assists. What made him successful in 2013-2014 was his speed, his tenacity and his physicality. Even though his stats are not very impressive, his efforts were noticed in every game. What he did every night was to annoy teams and be a pest, and he did that every night. If he keeps using his speed and his tenacity, he will be a force on the third line. He was considered a first round bust in Minnesota, but for the San Jose Sharks, he is considered an impactful third liner.

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2014-2015 predictions:

James Sheppard stats have been rising every year ever since he got traded to San Jose.

• 2012-2013: 1 goal 3 assists, -9
• 2013-2014: 4 goals 16 assists, 3

If James Sheppard brings his speed to every game and shoots more, he is expected to have a better year in 2014-2015. If James Sheppard uses his speed and shooting skills, he will produce 10-15 goals, +20-25 assists this year. He will be a pivotal part to the San Jose Sharks success by balancing the scoring attack for the San Jose Sharks.