Identifying the worst draft picks in a team's history is a challenging task, often sparking debate among fans and analysts alike. Evaluating a draft selection requires years of hindsight, considering factors like NHL games played, overall impact, and the opportunity cost of missing out on other potential stars. For the San Jose Sharks, a franchise still seeking its first Stanley Cup, some draft choices stand out as particularly disappointing.
Several first-round selections have failed to live up to their potential. Andrei Zyuzin, chosen 2nd overall in 1996, played roughly one season with the Sharks, a significant underachievement for such a high pick. Jeff Jillson, picked 14th overall in 1999, also had a short tenure with the team. Similarly, Lukas Kaspar, selected 22nd overall in 2004, only played 16 games for the Sharks. These players simply did not deliver the expected return on investment.
Other first-rounders, while not complete busts, also failed to reach their projected ceilings. Devin Setoguchi (8th overall, 2005), Milan Michalek (6th overall, 2003) and Steve Bernier (16th overall, 2003) had decent NHL careers, but San Jose passed on other potentially better players. Ty Wishart, drafted 16th overall in 2006, never played a game for the Sharks.
Beyond the first round, several second-round picks have also proven disappointing. Tero Maatta (41st overall, 2000), Gabryel Boudreau (49th overall, 2013), Taylor Doherty (57th overall, 2009), William Wrenn (43rd overall, 2009), Dan Spang (52nd overall, 2002), Angel Nikolov (37th overall, 1994), and Peter Roed (38th overall, 1995) all failed to make a significant impact at the NHL level. While second-round picks are less certain than first-rounders, the Sharks would have hoped for more from these selections.
It’s important to acknowledge that drafting is an inexact science. Many factors contribute to a player's success or failure, including development, coaching, and luck. However, when evaluating a team's drafting history, it’s impossible to ignore the missed opportunities and the players who simply didn’t pan out. The Sharks, like every other team, have had their share of draft-day regrets.
Looking ahead, the Sharks' recent drafts will determine the team's future success. In the 2025 NHL Draft, the Sharks selected Michael Misa with the second overall pick. Only time will tell if Misa and other recent picks will blossom into impactful NHL players and help the Sharks contend for a Stanley Cup.
