Sharks Newest Addition Collin Graf Explains Why He Signed With Them

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Hunter Bowman
April 6, 2024 (2:04 PM)

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Collin Graf, a sought-after undrafted player from Quinnipiac University, surprised many in NCAA hockey circles with his decision to sign with the struggling San Jose Sharks over offers from bigger teams like the Colorado Avalanche, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Boston Bruins.

"I think they were really honest with me," Graf told reporters regarding his decision. "There are a lot of Northeast guys, as a Massachusetts guy, it's familiar. I thought that obviously added to the decision for sure. I think it was just the honesty of what they saw in me and what they thought I could do."

Despite his limited acquaintance with teammates, Graf expressed eagerness to reunite with Henry Thrun and potentially line up alongside Luke Kunin and William Eklund.

"I know Henry Thrun," Graf said. "[I] played against him at Harvard. [I've] skated with him growing up; we had a similar skating coach, and in the summer, played three on three with him. Besides that, I don't think I know anyone [else here]."

Graf's journey to the NHL defies initial doubts about his size, as he underwent a significant growth spurt that enhanced his on-ice presence. Armed with an impressive college record, Graf is poised to challenge the notion that size determines success in professional hockey.

Source: Bruinsinsider

Collin Graf reveals why he signed with the San Jose Sharks