When the Sharks acquired Zack Ostapchuk, it was met with fan outrage, not necessarily because Ostapchuk is a bad player, but because fan favorite Fabian Zetterlund was sent the other way. Combine that with Grier’s praise of the youngster when he was acquired, that they see him as a potential piece for the future, and his early struggles in teal can be seen as a major disappointment. Ostapchuk still has some intriguing potential, and at 22, could still be something for the Sharks.
Drafted by Ottawa in the 2nd round in 2021, the same year as William Eklund went 7th overall for the Sharks, Ostapchuk showed promise as a big toolsy forward in juniors, even suiting up for Canada for the World Juniors. Unfortunately, his offense hasn't necessarily translated to the pro game thus far. Ostpachuk scored just 28 points in 69 games as a rookie for Ottawa’s AHL affiliate and followed it up with just 4 points in 56 NHL games between the Sharks and Senators. He did improve at the AHL level, however, scoring 11 points in 15 games last year. Ostpachuk was probably better served by spending the whole season in the AHL to continue developing, but despite the lack of scoring, he has shown some intriguing traits.
Ostpachuk has excellent skating for a player of his size. He also plays a very nasty physical game, which will at the very least keep him in the line-up as a 4th line center if he continues to develop defensively. If he wants to play up the lineup in the top 9, he will need to unlock more of his offense. However, it does take players longer to develop offensively at his size, and he has shown flashes in the AHL of having more upside offensively. He reminds me of a former Senators prospect in Nick Paul, who has a similar profile to Ostapchuk. Paul didn’t break out until his Draft +7 season, but is now a solid piece for the Tampa Bay Lightning.
When it comes to next season, Ostapchuk will be competing for the 4th-line center job with a solid camp. Ostapchuk is the favorite to win the job, but he could still use some time in the minors if needed. This may be the best path for Ostpachuk's long-term development. While playing in the NHL wouldn't hurt, spending extra time in the AHL could help him find his offense and benefit him long-term for the Sharks.
Some players need more time than others; player development is different for everybody, and the Sharks are hoping Ostpachuk can live up to expectations in time, but don’t be alarmed if it doesn't come right away.