Collin Graf, an NCAA free agent, has chosen to sign with the San Jose Sharks after receiving offers from 24 NHL teams. On his first day of practice with the Sharks, Graf was positioned on the right wing alongside William Eklund on the left and Luke Kunin in the center. Head coach David Quinn expressed uncertainty if Graf would make his NHL debut in upcoming games against the St. Louis Blues or the Arizona Coyotes as he wanted to assess Graf’s condition following a late flight. However, Quinn anticipates that Graf will have an opportunity to play over the weekend, especially with family members coming to support him.
When asked why he chose the Sharks out of numerous offers he received, Graf said that he was impressed by their honesty during the recruitment process. He noted that this played a significant role in his decision-making process. Quinn echoed this sentiment by highlighting how transparent and forthcoming the Sharks were when offering opportunities to players, which helped build trust with Graf. This approach seems to have been a crucial factor in Graf’s choice to join the Sharks.
Graf expressed excitement about being part of such an established franchise like San Jose Sharks and hopes to contribute towards their success in future seasons. He is eager to work with experienced players like Eklund and Kunin and learn from them while also showcasing his skills on the ice.
In conclusion, Collin Graf’s decision to sign with San Jose Sharks was influenced by several factors including their honesty during recruitment and their transparency when offering opportunities to players. The team’s experienced roster and coaching staff provide him with an excellent opportunity to develop his skills and reach his full potential as an NHL player.
