San Jose Sharks top unsigned defense prospect Eric Pohlkamp could have a dream two days starting on Friday night.
The 2023 NHL Draft 5th round pick of the Sharks is one of three finalists for NCAA Hockey’s player of the year award, the Hobey Baker Award. The other two finalists are Michigan’s TJ Hughes and Minnesota Duluth’s Max Plante, who the Detroit Red Wings drafted in the second round of the 2024 NHL Draft.
Pohlkamp had a standout season for the University of Denver, scoring 18 goals and 21 assists in 42 games. He’s been a top d-man for arguably the best coach not in the NHL, David Carle, who has gotten his team back to the National Championship game.
Denver defeated fellow San Jose Sharks prospect Cole McKinney and Michigan in double overtime during the National Semi-Final on Thursday. Pohlkamp had three shots on goal and was minus one without recording a point.
“I’ll try to get a good night’s rest tonight and hopefully some recovery tomorrow because that’s the main focus, Saturday’s game,” Pohlkamp said postgame. “But I’ll enjoy it with my family. It’ll be a super cool day tomorrow.”
There has been speculation on whether Pohlkamp will sign his entry-level contract with the San Jose Sharks following his season at Denver. After Saturday, the 22-year-old will have played three seasons in NCAA hockey. During his freshman season, the Sharks prospect played at Bemidji State before he transferred to Denver in 2024.
“I’m watching them a little bit,” Pohlkamp said when asked if he’s keeping up with the Sharks. “Not trying to [watch] them too much, just because you have to take care of the team here at Denver.”
And regarding signing his ELC:
“When that time comes, I have to cross that bridge at that point. I’ll be super honored to play for the Sharks.”
Pohlkmap and Denver will face Wisconsin for the NCAA Title on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. on ESPN.
*Quotes provided by Paul Delos Santos of NHL.com, who is in attendance for the NCAA Frozen Four*