Former Edmonton Oilers first-round pick Kailer Yamamoto could be an interesting addition to the San Jose Sharks.
Yamamoto was ranked 22nd overall in 2017 and has yet to find the potential that made him a first-rounder. In 244 games for the Oilers, Yamamoto scored 50 goals and 68 assists. During the 2021-22 season, the winger scored 20 goals and 21 assists in his career-best season.
After the 21-22 season, Yamamoto was primed for a breakout year. Unfortunately for the 25-year-old, that didn’t happen. Injuries shortened his season to 58 games, and he scored ten goals and 15 assists.
He was then traded to the Detroit Red Wings along with now Sharks forward Klim Kostin. The Red Wings acquired Yamamoto the day after the trade, making him an unrestricted free agent.
Yamamoto was born in Spokane, Washington and signed a one-year contract with the Seattle Kraken. In 59 games last season, Yamamoto’s offensive struggles continued, as he recorded just eight goals and eight assists. He did not receive a qualifying offer and became UFA once again.
Yamamoto is a strong attacker. During his time with the Oilers, he often played on a line with Leon Draisaitl, providing the centerman with excellent puck retrieval skills. The Sharks’ foresight was a weak spot last season, and while they have upgraded the roster’s talent, a skilled forward who can win puck battles in the corners remains a need.
San Jose also has many talented forwards on the roster and has added many forwards for internal competitions that breed success. If Yamamoto remains without a contract, the Sharks could offer him PTO for a closer look at training camp.
While the 2017 first-rounder doesn’t look like he’ll put up the 40-plus points he’s shown he’s capable of, he remains a young forward who wouldn’t cost much to take a chance on.
Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
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