Ryan Merkley is one of the league's most intriguing prospects. From top-10 pick to a projected second-round pick, Merkley was selected 21st overall by the San Jose Sharks.
Merkley started the season with the San Jose Barracuda, the AHL affiliate of the Sharks. The defenseman played high-end minutes on the power play and penalty kill.
Merkley would eventually be called up and make his debut against the Winnipeg Jets. He played a total of 16 minutes and 11 seconds in his debut. Days later, Merkley would score his first career NHL goal in his second career game.
So far this season, Merkley has been up and down between the AHL and NHL. Through his first 21 games, he has recorded three points and a -2 rating.
Merkley has made big strides in his game this season. He shall continue to have opportunities with the big squad, due to recent injuries to Mario Ferrero and Erik Karlsson.