Top prospect Will Smith convinced to leave school and join the NHL, signs deal

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Josh Tupper
May 28, 2024 (12:47)

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Top prospect Will Smith has reportedly been persuaded by the San Jose Sharks to forgo his second year of college and sign an entry-level contract in its place.

According to a number of reports at the end of the previous season, San Jose Sharks top prospect Will Smith had no interest in playing in the NHL. Smith intended to play his second season at Boston College instead. That doesn't appear to be the case now, as Smith is supposedly getting close to signing a contract with a team.

On his X account, David Pagnotta broke the following story.

Hearing the #SJSharks    & 2023 4th-overall pick Will Smith are finalizing his three-year, entry-level contract and an announcement could come today.

In 2023, Smith�who turned 19 in March�was chosen fourth overall. In just 41 games during his freshman year at Boston College, he racked up an incredible 71 points with 25 goals and 46 assists. In seven games at the world juniors, he also added five assists to his four goals.

Many believe Smith is almost NHL ready and that he is the kind of player San Jose will try to develop in the upcoming years. Smith is regarded by many as a human highlight reel and a very talented puckhandler. He is regarded as a highly unique prospect because of his capacity to transform hopeless circumstances into something positive.