"Signed to a bridge deal on July 1st, Eklund's contract was at first criticized for not being long enough and for the Sharks refusing to take the gamble on Eklund's potential. But what if that was the correct move? What if that's the proper way to do reconnaissance and one's due diligence before making a long-term investment into a future cornerstone?"
"In his first year as an NHL regular, where he played 80 total games, Eklund produced 16 goals and 29 assists for 45 points, an outstanding first year for a rookie on a lackluster team. During Macklin Celebrini's rookie season, where he spent the year on his wing, Eklund's production improved, in which he put up 17 goals and 41 assists for 58 points in 77 games."
"This year, Eklund currently has 5 goals and 8 assists for 13 points in 17 games, putting him on track for a career high of 17 goals and 43 assists for 60 points if he completes a 78-game season. Eklund's profile as a playmaker, with the ice as his canvas, is precisely why the Sharks are committed to a short-term investment that will leave fans across the league hungry for more."
William Eklund is a Swedish left-wing forward known for playmaking and creativity, currently in San Jose's top six and frequently on the young power play. Eklund showed consistency with 45 points in 80 games his first full season and improved to 58 points in 77 games while playing alongside Macklin Celebrini. This season he has 13 points in 17 games, on pace for about 60 points over 78 games. The Sharks signed him to a short bridge contract to evaluate development and mitigate risk before committing to a long-term deal as the team exits its rebuild.
Read at Puck Prose
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