It's the first week of December, and the San Jose Sharks sit just four points from a playoff spot. While I'd love to sit here and argue that the San Jose Sharks are destined to return to the postseason and make a run into the playoffs, I cannot justify that. San Jose will likely be at the bottom of the standings again, looking at the prize of the draft lottery, and that's okay. That's where this organization is supposed to be right now.
But, the prize of this lottery is worth talking about. As Macklin Celebrini continues to show how good high-draft picks can be, I wanted to turn your attention to the 2025 draft and James Hagens. Hagens is the unanimous projected first-overall pick ahead of the draft, and he's one of the brightest young talents in the hockey world. While Celebrini was expected to be good, this kid could be even better.
Playing primarily as a left-shot center, the 5'10 Hauppauge, New York native combined with Macklin Celebrini, Will Smith, William Eklund, Quentin Musty, and this San Jose prospect pool. It will set up a dynasty that San Jose could enjoy for many years if the Sharks win the lottery again. Having Celebrini-Hagens up the middle for the next 15 years would be unreal. With both players potentially having better upside than Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau, it's scary to think about how good this team could be.
This season, playing at Boston College, Hagens has three goals and 14 assists for 17 points in just 13 games. Recently, the Sharks' draft picks from the State of Massachusetts have benefitted the organization. If the Sharks fall to the bottom of the standings, Hagens could be another one to keep an eye on as we approach the draft in the summer.