The San Jose Sharks, a franchise with a rich history spanning over four decades, has seen many great players don their teal sweater. Today, we will dive into the history of the Sharks and take a closer look at some of the best players who have worn the numbers 41-50 for the team. Keep in mind that these rankings focus solely on the players’ performances during their time with the Sharks, not their entire careers.
Let’s kick things off with #41 – David Williams. Williams, also known as Whitney, spent the first 200 games of his 1,330-game career with the Sharks. Despite some injury issues, Whitney established himself as a solid point producer during his time in San Jose. He put up impressive numbers in the lockout-shortened 1994-95 season and consistently tallied 40 or more points in other seasons with the team. After his stint with the Sharks, Whitney went on to play for the Edmonton Oilers.
Moving on to #44, we have Marc-Edouard Vlasic, a cornerstone of the Sharks’ defense since his debut in the 2006-07 season. With over 1,200 games played in San Jose, Vlasic has proven himself as one of the top defensive defensemen in the NHL. While he may not rack up high offensive numbers, Vlasic excels in his defensive prowess, ranking among the top five players in blocked shots. With multiple Norris Trophy and Lady Byng votes to his name, Vlasic’s impact on the Sharks is undeniable.
Now, let’s talk about #44 – Joel Ward. Ward, a key player for the Sharks, showcased his skills during his time in San Jose. With standout performances in the 2016 Stanley Cup Final and the 2019 Western Conference Final, Ward proved to be a valuable asset to the team. However, his time with the Sharks came to an end when he was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights in 2024, marking a new chapter for the franchise.
As we move down the list to #50, we come across Tomas Hertl. Hertl made a splash in the NHL during the 2013-14 season with a 25-point campaign in just 37 games, including a memorable four-goal night against the New York Rangers. A consistent performer at center, Hertl has battled injuries but still managed to rack up over 60 points in multiple seasons. His departure to the Golden Knights in 2024 signified a changing of the guard for the Sharks.
In conclusion, the San Jose Sharks have seen many talented players don their sweater numbers over the years. From offensive powerhouses to defensive stalwarts, each player has left a lasting impact on the franchise’s history. As the Sharks continue to evolve and grow, fans can look back on these players with fond memories of their contributions to the team.