On Aug. 4, the New York Islanders signed No. 1 overall pick Matthew Schaefer. That leaves the status of the San Jose Sharks’ No. 2 overall pick, Michael Misa, a big question. When will he sign?
Misa is a highly talented 18-year-old center who will be a top player for the Sharks for years to come. What remains is what his role will be with the organization for the 25-26 season.
Questions surround the No. 2 pick as to where he might play in 25-26. After leading the CHL in points with 134 points (62 goals, 72 assists) in 65 games for the Saginaw Spirit, Misa appears to be ready to make the jump to NHL hockey.
The top San Jose Sharks pick from the 2025 NHL Draft looked good during development camp last July. With changes to how players can move from Juniors to the NCAA, Misa could potentially forego signing his entry-level contract this summer and jump to the NCAA.
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It is worth noting that Misa’s brother Luke, a Calgary Flames prospect, will play at Penn State in 25-26. Potential 2026 No. 1 pick Gavin McKenna left the CHL and will play NCAA Hockey at Penn State.
After speaking with multiple sources, it doesn’t sound like Misa will go through the NCAA route. Nothing was confirmed about what his future holds, but it appears there is a desire on both sides to get Misa at least under contract with the Sharks.
That doesn’t guarantee the top prospect an NHL spot for 25-26, but it makes his future timeline more certain. If Misa signs his ELC, he is no longer eligible for the NCAA.
He can only play for the San Jose Sharks or head back to the OHL and play for the Saginaw Spirit for a 3rd season. Signing Misa also allows him to participate in the upcoming Sharks training camp and potentially play at least nine NHL games before a decision is made.
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What is left for Misa at the Junior level?
Misa skated for Team Canada at the World Junior Summer Showcase. Misa was a shocking snub from Canada’s 2025 World Junior roster that was eliminated in the quarter finals for the second straight year.
After being arguably the best Canadian forward prospect last season, the Sharks prospect knows that if he goes to the WJC in 2026, he wants to make an impact.
“For me, it was just continue to focus on my season instead of the outside noise,” Misa told Adam Kimelman of NHL.com. “We had a pretty good season there in Saginaw. I ultimately just turned my focus back to the season and tried to help my team win games over there.”
Fellow San Jose Sharks prospect Sam Dickinson attended the WJSS. Dickinson signed his ELC in 2024 and could be on the Sharks’ opening night roster.
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For Misa, the Sharks need to ensure he’s playing at the correct level for his development. Will Smith proved early-season doubters wrong in 24-25 after signing out of the NCAA.
If Misa goes pro full-time in 25-26, don’t be surprised if his season slowly gets better. The Olympic break could be a perfect time for an 18-year-old rookie to regather himself and come back even stronger.
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