The San Jose Sharks may go for Chase Reid in the 2026 NHL Draft. The Soo Greyhounds defenseman has emerged as the ideal candidate among a selection of top talents.

The 6’2 prospect has been grabbing headlines, alongside Penn State’s Gavin McKenna and Frölunda HC’s Ivar Steinberg. Like his offense-minded peers, Reid has been hailed for his skill and size, which are pivotal parts of his game.

As per prospect analyst Steven Ellis, the San Jose Sharks and Reid are an ideal fit.

“Most scouts agree Reid is the best defenseman available this year,” the DailyFaceOff reporter wrote. “And the top candidate to go second overall to the San Jose Sharks.”

The franchise will enter the draft with two first-round picks, 2nd and 20th overall. The Sharks are in desperate need of blue-line reinforcements, and Reid seemingly fits the bill. His defense and extensive playing time have earned him plaudits.

"In our recent scouting report of defenseman Chase Reid, we said he is the best defenseman in this draft,” as stated Hannah Stuart of Bleacher Report.

Reid can close gaps and shove forwards to the perimeter. He can then use his puck-handling skills to transition defense into offense. 

His physicality and reach also help in triggering counterattacks.

After building their forward line, a top priority for the Sharks is adding a right-hand defenseman to lead the power play. His skating and puck-moving may complement defenseman Sam Dickinson.

Additionally, pairing him with center Macklin Celebrini and forward Will Smith could safeguard the Sharks’ balance for years. 

His record with the Soo Greyhounds doesn't disappoint. In 45 games, Reid has scored 18 goals and 48 points overall.

Besides performances, he brings a tough mindset that complements his robust style of play.

Chase Reid Isn’t Short of Self-Belief

While Reid may top a lot of analysts’ shortlists, his journey to the draft hasn’t been smooth. In 2023, the 18-year-old was cut from the Waterloo Black Hawks in the USHL.

Instead of being discouraged, he joined the NAHL’s Bismarck Bobcats the following season.

Reid eventually joined the Soo Greyhounds, who selected him in the seventh round of the OHL draft. The impact was immediate, as Reid finished the first season with 40 points in 39 regular-season games.

The American accrued experience at the lower level and cemented himself as a top prospect.

Additionally, Reid is brimming with confidence. Speaking about himself, he acknowledged his journey and abilities.

“I think I’ve overcome a lot of adversity in my career,” Reid said during the NHL combine.

With the Sharks having missed the playoffs for the seventh consecutive year, Reid’s tenacity could be the answer to their troubles for now and years to come.

Is Reid the perfect profile for the San Jose Sharks? Let us know in the comments.

Read more at NHL Fan Central.

Written by

Sijo Paul

Edited by

Sijo Paul