San Jose Sharks fantasy projections for 2023-24
Eklund can flourish in full-time role; healthy Duclair worth consideration
As part of NHL.com’s 32 in 32 series, the fantasy hockey staff has projections for relevant players on the San Jose Sharks. Players are listed in order of fantasy rank for this season. For more coverage, visit NHL.com/Fantasy and subscribe for free to the “NHL Fantasy on Ice” podcast.
Reason for optimism: Even after the Sharks traded elite defenseman Erik Karlsson to the Pittsburgh Penguins on Aug. 6, Hertl has plenty of fantasy upside on the top line with breakout candidate William Eklund and/or goal-scoring wing Anthony Duclair. Hertl, a two-time 30-goal scorer, has had at least 63 points in consecutive seasons and set NHL career highs in assists (41) and power-play points (22) last season.
NHL.com point projection: 65
Hertl’s second goal of game
NHL.com fantasy rank: 196
Reason for optimism: Couture was tied for the second-highest point total (67) of his NHL career last season (70 in 2018-19). He had his fourth season of at least 20 power-play points and could be a fantasy bargain based on average draft position, especially in points-only leagues.
NHL.com point projection: 60
Couture buries the OT winner
William Eklund, C
NHL.com fantasy rank: 240
Reason for optimism: Eklund has seven points (two goals, five assists), four on the power play, in 17 NHL games over the past two seasons and is a breakout candidate with likely exposure to Hertl and/or Couture at even strength and on the first power-play unit. Eklund, along with center prospect Will Smith (No. 4 pick in 2023 NHL Draft; playing this season at Boston College), are worth prioritizing in fantasy keeper and dynasty leagues during San Jose’s rebuild.
NHL.com point projection: 57
Anthony Duclair, LW
NHL.com fantasy rank: N/A
Reason for optimism: Duclair was limited to 20 games last season after having Achilles surgery but set NHL career highs in goals (31), points (58) and power-play points (21) for the Florida Panthers in 2021-22. He could challenge Hertl and Couture for San Jose’s lead in goals in 2023-24 and is a potential unrestricted free agent after this season.
NHL.com point projection: 55
Sharks trade for Duclair
Other SJS players to consider in fantasy: Filip Zadina, RW; Mario Ferraro, D; Alexander Barabanov, LW/RW