Sharks use No. 2 overall pick to add to their young, talented forward group

The San Jose Sharks have added to their young, talented forward group — already headlined by Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith — by selecting Michael Misa with the second overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.

By selecting Misa, the Sharks have arguably added the most offensively gifted player in the draft. Playing for the OHL Saginaw Spirit last season, the speedy Misa put up 62 goals, 72 assists and 134 points in 65 games. He added two goals and an assist in four playoff games. Listed as a center and left wing, Misa is projected to be an impact first-line center at the NHL level. More than just a flashy offensive performer, Misa also draws positive reviews for his defensive capabilities.

In their 2025 NHL Draft Guide, Elite Prospects stated of Misa:

“Capable of speeding past opponents and drawing complex rush patterns in the neutral zone, Misa finds and creates gaps in neutral zone coverages. He drives east-west, under and over teammates’ routes, slows down and accelerates, and slips pucks under sticks, always keeping defenders on their heels. Away from the puck, he’s constantly relocating from pocket to pocket, reloading to the top of the zone, sprinting behind defenders, and playing between them.”

The Sharks selection of Misa ended weeks of suspense as to who would go second overall. While it was widely expected that defender Matthew Schaefer would go first to the New York Islanders, the Sharks were perceived to have multiple options to go with. In the end, they landed Misa, who adds to one of the best young forward groups in the league.

With that young core set to lead the team moving forward, the Sharks and GM Mike Grier can now turn their attention to free agency, where the team has a league-high $40M in cap flexibility, per PuckPedia. While the club isn’t expected to be a major player for headline free agents on July 1, they could do well by signing veteran depth to support their young core.