San Jose Sharks Face Deadline to Sign Prospect Carson Wetsch

The San Jose Sharks are racing against the clock to secure the rights of promising winger Carson Wetsch. If the team does not sign the 20-year-old to an entry-level contract by the end of this month, Wetsch will be eligible to re-enter the NHL Draft in June, potentially losing a valuable asset in the process.

Wetsch, who was selected by the Sharks in the third round of the 2024 NHL Draft while playing for the Calgary Hitmen in the Western Hockey League, showcased his scoring talent during his draft year, netting 25 goals and accumulating 50 points in 67 games. His offensive prowess continued to develop the following season, where he increased his goal tally to 33, although his overall points only slightly improved to 53.

In May 2025, Wetsch was traded to the Kelowna Rockets and subsequently named their captain for the 2025-26 season. His time with the Rockets saw his offensive production soar, yet his goal-scoring dipped, finishing the season with 72 points in 65 games but only 22 goals—the lowest since joining the Sharks.

As a 2024 draftee still competing in Major Junior, Wetsch qualifies to re-enter the draft this summer unless he signs an entry-level contract with the Sharks or commits to an NCAA program. Elite Prospects scout Daniel Gee praised Wetsch, describing him as “a high-motor, high-effort, connective, physical player,” noting that much of his effectiveness comes from his relentless play below the goal line, where he battles for advantageous positions.

Ryan Downey from Dobber Prospects echoed this sentiment, highlighting Wetsch’s smart, low-risk game that may not always produce highlight-reel moments but consistently yields results. With 75 penalty minutes to his name, Wetsch adds a physical edge to his offensive contributions.

If Wetsch lives up to his potential, he is projected to become a bottom-six forward in the NHL, although it may take some time for him to reach that level. In the meantime, he could serve as a valuable addition to the San Jose Barracuda.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.