San Jose Sharks forward Fabian Zetterlund was a fan favorite during his time with the New Jersey Devils.

San Jose Sharks forward Fabian Zetterlund was a fan favorite during his time with the New Jersey Devils.

Tonight marks his return to the Prudential Center for the first time since he was traded. 

"It's going to be fun tonight. Jersey was the team I got drafted by," Zetterlund said this morning. "I went on the highway [last night], and I was like, I just lived here last year. It was a bit weird. [I have] a lot of friends on the other side, but when the puck drops [there are] no friends, right?"

In 59 games for the Devils, Zetterlund had nine goals and 19 assists for 28 points. He was a fan favorite for Devils fans. His speed and quick shot made for a fun style of play. 

"It was hard for me," Zetterlund said about the trade. "[I] was young. I got traded and didn't know anything. All kinds of new stuff. A new team. A new system. Coming into training camp, I felt way better, way stronger, and I could play my game more."

Sharks head coach David Quinn loves the way the Swedish youngster plays.

"Zetterlund has had a really good year and is one of our better players throughout the course of the first 20-plus games," Quinn said.

Zetterlund came into camp much stronger than expected. He has added physicality to his already fast style of play. 

Former Devils goalie Mackenzie Blackwood, who the Sharks acquired in the offseason, said he knew Zetterlund was going to be a good player.

"I knew he had it in him. He is still young, and he's still got a lot of growing left to do," Blackwood said. "It's great to see his development and just watching him blossom into a great player."

Zetterlund's six goals are tied for the Sharks team lead this season. He has been a staple of the top-six forwards and the No. 1 powerplay unit.

"Got to play more ice time," Zetterlund said about his success. "I feel confident out there. It comes when you score some goals, too."

Zetterlund will look to continue his strong play on a line with Mikael Granlund and Anthony Duclair. 

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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