Sharks’ Jack Thompson Ready To Take Next Step In Development

San Jose Sharks defenseman Jack Thompson is playing in his third professional hockey season, and his 18 NHL games are the most in a single season in his career.

Thompson has two goals and five assists. His two goals were the first of his NHL career.

“It’s always an opportunity when you get to come up here and show your stuff,” Thompson said. “[I’m] just continuing to grow and continue to learn and play better and better each game.”

Thompson has been paired with Shakir Mukhamadullin during the Sharks first two practices after the 4 Nations Face-Off break.

“I’ve gotten a lot more comfortable and confident. Getting that experience up here and just learning from guys and learning from through repetition and playing in games and playing some minutes,” Thompson explained. “It’s nice to have that experience now and continue to grow off it.”

Thompson has a good chance of being sent back to the AHL after the NHL season ends. The San Jose Barracuda are pushing for a playoff birth and are in a strong position to achieve that goal.

“I think playoff hockey is great for experience and seeing what it’s all about. I was fortunate enough to play in it in Syracuse when I played there,” Thompson said. “Playoff hockey is pretty intense and pretty fun. I think it would be great. I think we got a good team with the ‘Cuda and a good group of guys.”

Thompson should get an extended run of NHL time now and after the March 7th trade deadline. He’s shown flashes of being an effective puck-mover in the NHL.

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