The highly anticipated moment has arrived: Michael Misa, a phenomenal young prospect, has officially committed his future to the San Jose Sharks, sealing an entry-level contract. This significant decision, publicly announced by the NHL franchise on Wednesday, definitively closes the door on any lingering speculation about Misa potentially pursuing an NCAA hockey career.
With training camp rapidly approaching – now just a week away – the second-overall pick in this year`s NHL Draft has firmly set his sights on a professional trajectory. The signing of this contract immediately renders him ineligible for U.S. collegiate play. Should Misa not secure a roster spot with the Sharks this season, his immediate path would lead him back to the OHL`s Saginaw Spirit, as current regulations stipulate he is too young to compete in the AHL.
Sharks General Manager Mike Grier conveyed his strong enthusiasm for the team`s promising new acquisition. “Michael is an exceptionally gifted player and a relentless hard worker whom we are thrilled to welcome into our organization,” Grier stated. “We are eagerly looking forward to witnessing his continuous development as an integral part of our group.”
Prior to this announcement, there had been considerable discourse regarding Misa`s potential interest in attending Penn State University. This scenario was made all the more compelling by the fact that his brother, Luka Misa (a prospect for the Calgary Flames), is slated to play for the institution this season. The NCAA`s recent amendment to its rules, now permitting former CHL players to be eligible for collegiate sports, had indeed opened up this viable alternative path for Misa.
Nonetheless, top prospects from the loaded 2025 draft class have showcased a diverse array of approaches to their post-draft careers. While several, including the first-overall pick Matthew Schaefer (New York Islanders), No. 5 Brady Martin (Nashville Predators), No. 8 Jake O`Brien (Seattle Kraken), and No. 9 Radim Mrtka (Seattle), have also opted for professional entry-level deals, a notable segment is choosing the collegiate route. Prominent examples include No. 6 Porter Martone (Philadelphia Flyers), who is committed to Michigan State, and No. 10 Roger McQueen (Anaheim Ducks), who is heading to Providence College.
Misa`s junior career has been nothing short of extraordinary. Granted exceptional status to enter the OHL a year earlier than typical, he wasted no time distinguishing himself, earning the prestigious title of the league`s most outstanding player last season – remarkably, in just his third year of play. The Oakville, Ontario native dominated on the ice, tallying an astounding 62 goals and 72 assists for a Canadian Hockey League-best 134 points across merely 65 games. In the season prior, Misa played a pivotal role in guiding the Saginaw Spirit to a memorable Memorial Cup victory as the host team, further cementing his reputation as a truly generational talent.
