Burning Questions For the 2025-26 Season: Collin Graf

With the 2025-26 season now in sight, the plan is to address the burning questions surrounding every player on the roster (or competing for a roster spot). These questions are focused on how the player is expected to contribute to the Sharks this season and what their role will be.

Collin Graf
6'1" 194lbs
23 years old (start of the season)
undrafted

Last Season

San Jose Barracuda (AHL)
40 games, 8 goals, 27 assists

San Jose Sharks (NHL)
33 games, 5 goals, 6 assists, 15:52 TOI

Collin Graf started the season with the San Jose Barracuda, where he was playing top-line minutes with eventual AHL MVP Andrew Poturalski. Graf quickly earned the trust of Coach John McCarthy and was playing in all situations, including on the penalty kill. He was called up midseason and played third-line minutes with the Sharks. Graf also showed why he has the potential to be an ace penalty killer.

After Cam Lund signed his ELC, Graf returned to the Barracuda to help secure their playoff spot. Graf was outstanding in the playoffs with 5 points in the Cuda's six games, including the series clincher against the Ontario Reign.

Burning Question

Can Collin Graf become the next do-all for the Sharks?

Graf showed a lot of versatility last season in both the AHL and NHL. The Sharks need help scoring more goals, limiting the other team from scoring, power play help, and penalty kill help. Graf showed flashes in all three areas last year and could be the Sharks' next do-it-all player. Graf showed plenty of playmaking, especially in the AHL, and by the end of the season, his scoring started to become more of a factor.

Graf's defensive prowess and penalty kill chops are the most impressive aspects. Usually, these are areas that take young players longer to grow and develop. Graf's hockey IQ and ability to read and react to the play quickly have made him a dynamic penalty killer at such a young age. Graf could be a huge reason if the Sharks' penalty kill takes a step forward. The Sharks have had a revolving door of veterans playing on the penalty kill over the last few seasons. Graf could help establish a new guard of young players on special teams.

Expectations

Collin Graf is ready to be a full-time NHLer. The Sharks' third line needs a talent injection, and Graf is that guy. He can add scoring pop and play a full 200-foot game. Graf can also play up in the lineup if necessary, but can also be just as effective in a limited role.

Collin Graf is entering the last year of his entry-level contract. If the Sharks are smart, they will look to get Graf locked up for a while. Evolving Hockey has Graf projected to sign an extension for two years at just under $1 million a season. Would expect to see something more in line with what Fabian Zetterlund signed after his trade (two years at $1.45 million). The Sharks would be wise to keep Graf around as he helps to fill several weak spots on the roster.