Noah Gregor’s perspective is part nine of a series that will be highlighting some of the prospects within the San Jose Sharks organization.
The San Jose Sharks acquired Noah Gregor in the 4th round of the 2016 NHL Draft at #111 overall. The 21-year-old is looking to make a name for himself on a professional level next season within an organization that will have plenty of opportunities for him succeed.
Noah Gregor has spent his previous 4 seasons in the Western Hockey League where he found himself playing in high pressure situations often. Whichever team he was on he was likely their best scoring option on offense and shut-down skater defensively.
Throughout his Junior career Gregor bounced around a bit but ultimately ended his time in the WHL averaging above a point per game (1.14) in 293 regular seasons contests, per eliteprospects. This feat is particularly impressive considering the amount turbulence he experienced throughout his young hockey career Whether it was nagging injuries or having to adjust to new systems (more than once), Gregor managed to push through and was able to excel in all situations.
Noah Gregor exhibited this clutch gene during this years WHL Playoffs where he helped lead the Prince Albert Raiders to their first championship in their teams history. Gregor scored 13 goals compiling 24 points overall in just 23 games.
The 6’0 185 pound skater carried this level of play into Prince Albert’s brief appearance at the 2019 Memorial Cup. Gregor shined racking up 5 points in his short 3 games stint in the tournament. He definitely caught the hockey world’s attention and most importantly the focus of the Sharks coaching and development staff.
Now with holes to fill on both the Barracuda and the Sharks, Gregor can take on significant minutes at the pro level. His name might not come up immediately when discussing San Jose’s prospect depth but Gregor’s high motor, offensive upside, and resolve during adverse conditions are all qualities that are tough to ignore.
Gregor’s ability to play center gives him a slight edge over some of the other players who are more known for their scoring prowess on the wing. The native of Beaumont Alberta has the same runway as everyone else heading into the Rookie Showcase and eventually training camp next month.
Adding Noah Gregor to a list that already includes forwards like Sasha Chmelevski, Ivan Chekhovich, and Joachim Blichfeld gives the San Jose Sharks plenty of options to fill in the necessary roles when it comes to both of their teams lack of overall depth.
Keep your eyes peeled on what transpires heading into the regular season, San Jose is counting on a few of these guys to transition somewhat seamlessly into the professional ranks. These skaters have a lot more to prove so it’ll be an enjoyable preseason scoping out what the Sharks have coming up through their ranks.