Talent Analysis

Hertl has upside potential to be a centerman who can play in all situations; he can defend, has a long reach, has an ability to strip pucks, can make offensive plays and can play very well in the tight and dirty areas of ice. The talented playmaker can play all of the forward positions and has the physical game to match his offensive skills. The big Czech forward has good quickness and agility when combined with his excellent hockey sense allows him to play at the higher and quicker speed necessary. The first rounder will need very little time to adjust to the North American style of play but must improve his four-step acceleration and stride technique to give him more time and space to use his elite offensive skills at the NHL level.


Future

Hertl could compete for a roster spot at the Sharks’ NHL training camp but San Jose might also try to convince him to play in the CHL or allow him to stay in the Czech league for another year