While losing as much as the San Jose Sharks are is hard on fans, players, and coaches, it is the right thing to do for a long-term goal.

While losing as much as the San Jose Sharks are is hard on fans, players, and coaches, it is the right thing to do for a long-term goal.

With 14 games remaining, the Sharks are on pace to once again finish last in the NHL in wins; however, unlike last season, they could finish last. They are guaranteed the best odds at the No. 1 overall pick if they do.

San Jose has never held the No. 1 pick in the franchise's history. Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard was the unanimous selection at the 2023 NHL Draft, and with 54 points in 55 games, he's showing exactly why that was the case.

Boston University's Macklin Celebrini is trending similarly for the 2024 NHL Draft. It could be argued that if the Sharks land with the No. 1 pick and select Celebrini, they have never had a player of his potential. 

Celebrini finished his rookie season at BU with 55 points (30 goals, 25 assists) in 33 games. He was named Hockey East's Rookie of the Year and Player of the Year. 

While losing sucks, other than the last game against the Nashville Predators, the Sharks were staying close but losing out during the third period. Even during the Predators game, the Sharks held a 2-1 lead and kept it close before Nashville blew the doors open. 

The Sharks take on the Blackhawks for the third and final time this season on Saturday. That game could be a critical result in where each team finishes in the standings. The Blackhawks have 43 points to the Sharks' 39, but Chicago has played one more game than San Jose. 

Saturday also marks the first time Bedard will play in San Jose, giving fans a taste of what a potential NHL No. 1 pick could look like. 

Make sure you bookmark THN's San Jose Sharks site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.

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