San Jose Sharks sign defensive prospect Henry Thrun to entry-level contract

The San Jose Sharks have signed defenseman Henry Thrun to a two-year entry-level contract on Saturday. Thrun is eligible to join the Sharks immediately.

The move comes a day after Thrun’s run at Harvard University ended in a crushing 8-1 defeat at the hands of Ohio State. Thrun, the team’s captain had 33 points in 33 games with Harvard, earning himself the ECAC defensive defenseman of the year title, among other honors.

Thrun told the Anaheim Ducks last month that he had elected not to sign with the team, with Anaheim having one of the deeper defensive prospect crops in the league. San Jose acquired him ahead of the trade deadline.

Thrun is a defensive-first blueliner that moves the puck well and has good top speed. He isn’t flashy, and likely won’t put up huge numbers in the NHL, but he can start plays and pinch in effectively.

The Sharks was busy addressing defensive needs over the past few weeks. GM Mike Grier acquired Shakir Mukhamadullin and Nikita Okhotiuk in the deal that sent Timo Meier to the New Jersey Devils ahead of the deadline, while also nabbing a 2023 first-rounder and condition first-round selection in 2024, among other assets.

Thrun and Mukhamadullin should both be able to fight for roster spots next year, while Okhotyuk, 22, will be a solid depth defender with NHL experience. Mattias Hävelid is also a notable defensive prospect in the system.

The Sharks currently hold the best odds to land Connor Bedard at the 2023 NHL Draft. The Sharks have two first-round picks and 11 total in 2023, giving them a solid base to work with during the team’s rebuild.