San Jose Sharks forward Collin Graf says the team's future was a big reason he chose to sign.
San Jose Sharks forward Collin Graf says the team's future was a big reason he chose to sign.
San Jose Sharks forward Collin Graf says the team's future was a big reason he chose to sign.
Graf played seven games with San Jose after he signed out of Quinnipiac. Graf had two assists in those games but preached that he just tried to be as comfortable as possible.
"I think something that made me successful was trying just to be as comfortable as I can out there," Graf told THN.
There was a clear shift from game to game in Graf's play. He would have the puck on his stick more each game and take more chances. His first point, which came in his second game, is clear proof of that.
Graf joins the Sharks as part of GM Mike Grier's rebuild. He sees an extremely bright future for the team.
"I think it's really exciting. I think that's definitely part of the reason that I signed, is to be part of that young group of forwards," Graf said. "I think hopefully it happens pretty quick. Even next year, hopefully, try to push for a playoff spot. It doesn't need to be like a long-term thing."
While Graf's view of the playoffs being within reach next season is bold, it is encouraging to see the forward's confidence in what the front office is building. The Sharks have a lot of work to do to get back to the playoffs.
Part of that work is drafting Macklin Celebrini first overall in the upcoming 2024 NHL Draft. The unanimously projected No. 1 pick met with the Sharks at the Draft Combine this week, and although he hasn't decided whether to go pro after the draft, that didn't stop Graf from talking about him.
"I played against him. I saw him a lot in college, whether it just be watching games or stuff like that," Graf explained. "[He's a] really skilled player. He makes plays [and] creates for his linemates. It will definitely be more fun [to play with him because it is] a lot less fun playing against him."
Graf also spoke about Will Smith, but he didn't forget that Smith's Boston College knocked out Quinnipiac during this year's NCAA tournament.
"He makes a lot of plays, too. He had a really good year at BC. I feel like he likes to drive play a lot. [He] makes the really smart plays. He can score a lot, too," Graf said. "He ended my season, so that's not a great memory, but it's okay. We won the year before."
When asked who he would prefer to have as his center, Will Smith or Macklin Celebrini, Graf opted not to pick either.
"Maybe play with them both. That would be pretty good, for sure. I think I'm going to go with that one," Graf joked.
Graf touched on other topics, such as his training for the Summer and what he looks for in a head coach. Other parts of this exclusive interview will be released soon.
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