San Jose Sharks 2023 No. 4 overall pick Will Smith has struggled, but general manager Mike Grier says there are no plans to send him to the AHL.

San Jose Sharks 2023 No. 4 overall pick Will Smith has struggled, but general manager Mike Grier says there are no plans to send him to the AHL.

"The plan is for him to be up here, learn up here, play up here," Grier said. "Like I said, we knew there was going to be ups and downs, [but] I don't envision it getting to the point where we feel like he needs to go to the American League."

Smith hasn't recorded a point in six games this season. San Jose is following a load management rest plan to see him be a healthy scratch sporadically throughout the first half of the season. Against the Anaheim Ducks last night, Smith's line was one of the team's best after two periods. 

Grier feels that the young center is "pressing" a little bit as he still searches for his first NHL goal. 

"I'm sure, like any young player, and especially an offensive player who hasn't scored yet, I'm sure he's just pressing a little bit [and] needs to get that first goal in point. I think once that happens, he'll relax, and things will be okay," Grier said. "I think he's playing fine. It's just part of the adjustment of him learning the NHL game, what he can do."

Smith has shown flashes of his offensive skill in the last two games but hasn't been able to break through and get on the scoresheet with an assist or goal.

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

Sharks Prospect Could Miss Chance At World Juniors Amid OHL Trade Saga

Sharks Penalties Cost Them Again; Ducks Win 3-1

Sharks Message To Matt Benning After Healthy Scratch

BREAKING: Sharks Send Two Prospects To AHL With Injury Return On The Horizon

Mike Grier Explains Load Management Development Plans For Macklin Celebrini & Will Smith

• undefined