Will Smith's sophomore surge is on the horizon for the San Jose Sharks. After a promising rookie campaign, the young center appears poised for a breakout year. JD Young breaks down Smith's impressive first NHL season, highlighting his 45-point performance and second-half surge. Advanced stats paint a picture of a player with high offensive upside, ranking in the 70th percentile despite being just 19 years old. The host draws intriguing comparisons to other recent top draft picks like Matty Beniers, Kent Johnson, and Logan Cooley, suggesting that Cooley's trajectory might offer a glimpse into Smith's future.

Young projects Smith's potential for the upcoming season, forecasting an impressive 25 goals and 40 assists, totaling 65 points in his sophomore campaign. This significant jump in production would cement Smith's status as a rising star in the league and a cornerstone for the Sharks' rebuild. The analysis explores how Smith's development compares to other young talents and what it could mean for San Jose's future success.

Potential line combinations are also examined, with veterans like Jeff Skinner possibly complementing Smith's playmaking abilities. The podcast delves into how new teammates and roster changes might impact the young center's production and role within the team. Listeners can expect an in-depth look at Will Smith's development, his projected impact on the Sharks' offense, and what his progression means for the franchise's long-term plans.

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