Sam Dickinson opened eyes inside the San Jose Sharks front office after development camp in July.

Now about to take part in his second official Sharks training camp, the 2024 11th overall pick is focused on his confidence, not where he stands on the depth chart.

“Every time I get on the ice, just show what I can do. It’s a great opportunity for everybody playing,” Dickinson said about the two Rookie Face-Off games this weekend. Two games that a lot of people are going to be looking at. A lot of eyes within all the organizations. [It’s] a good opportunity to showcase myself and show that I’m ready.”

The Sharks will take on the Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings prospects at FivePoint Arena in Irvine, CA.

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Following the rookie games, Dickinson will need to impress even more than he already has. Training camp for the San Jose Sharks begins next week, and Dickinson will be given every opportunity to make the NHL roster.

The 19-year-old is a curious case, as his age prevents him from being sent to the AHL to play for the San Jose Barracuda. If Dickinson doesn’t make the Sharks roster, he will be sent back to the London Knights in the OHL.

Sharks GM Mike Grier added many veterans to the blue line this off-season. As Dmitri Orlov, John Klingberg, and Nick Leddy enter the fold, Dickinson knows he’s got his work cut out for him.

Despite the daunting task in front of him, the Sharks’ top defense prospect isn’t looking at the numbers.

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“Not really. I think it’s more worrying about myself,” Dickinson said. “If I’m going to make it, if I’m going to work into the numbers, I’m not really worried about who it’s going to be over, or anything like that.”

Dickinson’s confidence heading to the Rookie Face-Off and beyond is a good start to his journey to an NHL spot. Now it is time for him to show what he can do on the ice.

After all, the San Jose Sharks are getting a potential No. 1 d-man in Dickinson. In 55 games last season, Dickinson had 91 points (29 goals, 62 assists). He added another 31 points (9 goals, 22 assists) in 17 postseason games.

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