Cam Lund prepares for potential NHL debut against Leafs

San Jose Sharks prospect Cam Lund began his professional career with his first full NHL practice on Monday. Lund recently signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Sharks after finishing his college hockey season at Northeastern. He expressed excitement about this opportunity, saying, "It’s a dream come true for me." Lund might make his NHL debut on Thursday when the Sharks play the Toronto Maple Leafs. He was drafted by the Sharks in the second round of the 2022 draft. Last season, he served as an assistant captain at Northeastern and led his team with 18 goals and 22 assists. At 6-foot-2 and weighing 195 pounds, Lund will play on the wing. Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky notes that Lund brings valuable size and skill to the team. He is one of several young players joining the Sharks this season, including Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith. Lund's connections to other players, like Collin Graf, helped him transition to professional hockey. Warsofsky praised Lund’s potential and noted the physical challenges he could face as he adapts to the NHL's pace and toughness. In addition, Sharks defenseman Marc-Edouard Vlasic is now day-to-day with an upper-body injury. He has missed the last two games but may return before the end of the season. The Sharks have 12 games left in their regular season.