The San Jose Sharks recently acquired defenseman Michael Kesselring from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for the 20th overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. This move addresses San Jose’s need for defensive talent, and General Manager Mike Grier plans to extend Kesselring’s contract.
However, the Sharks’ activity in the trade market may not be over. They hold the second overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, a selection that is reportedly available for trade, similar to their position last year. San Jose is actively seeking to bolster its defense and is open to using this valuable pick to acquire a defenseman.
According to Dave Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, speaking on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio’s Power Play Segment, both the Sharks’ second overall pick and the Chicago Blackhawks’ fourth overall pick are currently in play.
Pagnotta explained that while both picks are available, there’s a difference in how the teams are approaching potential deals. The Blackhawks, holding the fourth pick, appear more open to a complete trade of the selection, potentially moving back in the draft or trading it entirely. The Sharks, on the other hand, are more inclined to move back in the draft order, using their second overall pick as a significant asset to acquire a top-tier defenseman. If a suitable defenseman can be secured with the pick, San Jose would strongly consider such a transaction.
If a significant defensive acquisition isn’t on the table, the Sharks are likely to entertain offers to move back in the draft. They were also reportedly listening to offers for the second overall pick last year but ultimately selected Michael Misa. The Sharks’ blue line remains a priority, and the addition of Kesselring, an RFA who fits their system and controllable contract status, is a step in the right direction.
The team is also facing decisions regarding other players. It’s unlikely they will re-sign Mario Ferraro to a long-term deal, as his desired five- to six-year contract exceeds San Jose’s willingness to commit beyond three years. Ferraro is expected to test the free-agent market, prompting the Sharks to explore alternative defensive options.
With Kesselring filling one defensive need, San Jose still has more work to do to solidify its back end. The potential availability of the fourth overall pick for the Blackhawks raises questions about potential trades and whether a deal will materialize.
