Will Smith, a rising star in the NHL, appears set to unlock his full potential during the upcoming 2026-27 season. Having already showcased his abilities, his development trajectory suggests he is far from reaching his peak performance. This season could mark a significant turning point in his career, propelling him to new heights within the league.
Smith's journey with the San Jose Sharks has been marked by steady improvement. Despite facing an injury setback that limited his appearances last season, he impressively notched 24 goals and 59 points, underscoring his capability to contribute substantially to the team's offense. These numbers, achieved in fewer games, hint at an even greater output when he is consistently on the ice, making him a critical component for the Sharks' future success.
Will Smith's Ascent: From Promising Talent to NHL Star
Will Smith has steadily emerged as a key player for the San Jose Sharks, consistently demonstrating growth and a high ceiling for future performance. His second professional season was particularly notable, as he exceeded the 20-goal mark, finishing with 24 goals, and nearly reached 60 points, ending with 59 despite being sidelined for a portion of the season due to injury. These achievements highlight his increasing impact and offensive prowess, suggesting that his previous season, while impressive, was merely a precursor to what he is truly capable of achieving.
With the forthcoming 2026-27 season, expectations are high for Smith, especially with the potential synergy he could develop alongside fellow talents like Macklin Celebrini. The prospect of an enhanced Sharks power play, which struggled to consistently perform above average last season, further fuels these expectations. If the team's offensive strategies align and the power play unit capitalizes on its abundant talent, Smith's point totals could see a significant boost. His ability to contribute effectively on the power play, as evidenced by his 17 power-play points last season, indicates a strong foundation that, with continued refinement and improved team dynamics, could lead to him achieving a point-per-game pace, solidifying his status as one of the league's elite wingers.
Unlocking Full Potential: Smith's Impact on Sharks' Offense
The 2026-27 season is anticipated to be a transformative year for Will Smith, as he is expected to elevate his game to a point-per-game level, a significant leap that would firmly establish him among the NHL's top offensive players. This projection is underpinned by his consistent development, demonstrated by surpassing the 20-goal threshold and nearing the 60-point mark in his previous season, even with time missed due to injury. His innate offensive skills, combined with the strategic enhancements planned for the Sharks' power play, create an optimal environment for him to achieve this career milestone.
A critical factor in Smith's potential breakout is the anticipated improvement in the San Jose Sharks' power play efficiency. After a season where the unit performed at an average level, the influx of talent and refined strategies are expected to significantly bolster its effectiveness. This improved power play will offer Smith more opportunities to generate points, building on his respectable 17 power-play points from last season. Reaching the mid-to-high 20s in power-play points would not only inflate his overall offensive statistics but also make the Sharks' attack considerably more dangerous. At just 21 years old, Smith is on the cusp of realizing his immense potential, positioning himself as a formidable presence in the league and a crucial asset for the Sharks, capable of delivering a 30-goal, 80-point season that would undeniably capture the attention of the entire NHL.
