STEAL: San Jose Sharks Land Ryan Lin, a DEFENSIVE Prospect Who Can IMPACT the NHL Early

San Jose Sharks may have struck gold with Ryan Lin, the 21st overall pick known for elite skating, high-end hockey sense, and top-tier transition play. Could Lin’s defensive IQ and poised puck movement make him the steal of the NHL Draft? JD Young spotlights Lin’s standout WHL performance, projecting the right-shot defenseman as a future top-four blueliner despite questions about his offensive ceiling. Key discussions focus on Lind’s consistency, his smart aggression, and the challenge of translating his skill set to NCAA play with the University of Denver Pioneers. JD Young compares Lin to defensemen like Rasmus Dahlin and Ryan Merkley, exploring the strengths and areas for growth that could accelerate his path to the Sharks’ roster. Can Lin’s unique blend of mobility, physicality, and vision transform San Jose's blue line sooner than expected?