Will Smith Hockey Breakthrough: How The Sharks Star Is Primed For A Massive 2026-27 NHL Season
As the San Jose Sharks prepare for training camp ahead of the 2026-27 NHL season, all eyes are on rising star Will Smith. The dynamic center, who made waves transitioning from NCAA dominance to the professional ranks, is now solidified as a core pillar of Northern California's hockey resurgence.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Player | Will Smith (C) |
| Team | San Jose Sharks (NHL) |
| Draft Position | 4th Overall, 2023 |
| Current Status | Entering 3rd NHL Season (2026-27) |
| Key Linemates | Macklin Celebrini, William Eklund |
From Boston College Phenom to San Jose Sharks Cornerstone
The journey of Will Smith in professional hockey has been nothing short of meteoric. After being selected fourth overall by the San Jose Sharks in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, Smith opted to play one dominant season at Boston College. Alongside his high-flying collegiate line, he led the NCAA in scoring with 71 points in 41 games, proving his offensive instincts were already NHL-ready before signing his entry-level contract in May 2024.
Now preparing for the 2026-27 season, the 21-year-old forward has transitioned from a highly touted prospect into a cornerstone franchise player. His development is a direct result of his elite hockey IQ and world-class playmaking ability, honed during his time with the USA Hockey National Team Development Program (USNTDP). Alongside fellow young star Macklin Celebrini, Smith forms one of the most lethal young center duos in the entire league.
Broadcast Schedule and How to Stream San Jose Sharks Games
With the 2026-27 NHL preseason scheduled to begin in September, demand for Sharks tickets and broadcast access is at an all-time high. Fans tracking the progress of Will Smith have several reliable ways to watch him live this season:
- Regional Broadcasts: Northern California viewers can catch the majority of regular-season games on their local regional sports network, featuring dedicated local commentary and analysis.
- National Telecasts: High-profile matchups, especially Pacific Division rivalries, are slated for national broadcasts on ESPN, ABC, and TNT.
- Out-of-Market Streaming: Fans living outside the local broadcast market can stream games live via ESPN+ and Hulu throughout the year.
- In-Arena Experience: Tickets for home games at the SAP Center in San Jose are available via verified ticket partners, with high demand expected for weekend division matchups.
Will Smith's early hockey memories shaped Sharks rookie's love of game ...
Expectations for the 2026-27 Campaign and Beyond
The upcoming 2026-27 campaign represents a critical developmental leap for both Smith and the Sharks. Having adjusted to the grueling 82-game schedule over his first two professional years, the creative center is poised to shoulder top-line responsibilities and quarterback San Jose's first power-play unit.
NHL analysts project Smith to establish new career-highs in both goals and assists this year. As San Jose moves out of its deep rebuilding phase, the team's success will heavily rely on Smith's ability to drive play at even strength and exploit opposing defenses with his signature lateral movement and vision.
