If Grier is true to his word, the Sharks might take Stenberg.
Credit: Elite Prospects-Twitter/XWith the NHL Draft five weeks away at this point, the San Jose Sharks have some tough decisions to make.
Last week, we highlighted Chase Reid.
This week, we will take a look at Ivar Stenberg.
Who Is Ivar Stenberg?
Stenberg is an 18-year-old left wing from Stenungsund, Sweden. The lefty stands at 6’ and weighs 181 pounds.
Scouts have classified him as a cerebral tactician, a dangler, and a playmaker.
This past season, he played for Frölunda HC. In 43 games, Stenberg scored 11 goals and added 22 assists. He also played for Team Sweden at the World Juniors tournament. He played in seven games, totaling four goals and six assists. He is also currently playing in the World Championships (four assists in four games).
Why the Sharks Could Take Stenberg
GM Mike Grier’s philosophy is to take the best available player. In Stenberg’s case, he could be the best player in the draft. However, the best player does not necessarily mean first overall. With Gavin McKenna being a center, the Toronto Maple Leafs will likely draft him first. That would give the Sharks the prime chance to take the best player of the class.
With his playmaking and high hockey IQ, Stenberg could be an amazing complement to Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith. Igor Chernyshov would move down to the Michael Misa line. All of a sudden, the Sharks’ top 6 becomes absolutely lethal.
The downside: the Sharks are already heavy on forward depth. That could push someone out, and the speculation is that William Eklund could be the odd man out. Also, the need is clearly on the defensive side. They could address that with the 20th overall pick, but Reid will likely be selected at that point.
Conclusion
Stenberg is a top-line talent in the NHL. Pairing him with Celebrini and Smith makes that line one of the best in hockey, and it also adds top-line depth to the second line. The Sharks’ top 6 would be ridiculous for years.
However, Stenberg does not address the dire need for defense. Granted, Reid would not be ready next season anyway, but at least he would be in the pipeline.
We will see what Grier values more: the best available or what is needed.
