San Jose Sharks: A look at newly-acquired prospect Fabian Zetterlund

The San Jose Sharks may be one of the most intriguing teams as the NHL Trade Deadline continues to draw near. The team has been fielding calls from several teams regarding several players on their roster, including Erik Karlsson.

While Karlsson is currently the focal point of rumors, the team made waves around the league this weekend by moving on from talented forward Timo Meier. While several teams were reportedly interested in the forward, ultimately, the New Jersey Devils won the "Timo Meier Sweepstakes".

"IT'S TIMO TIME IN NEW JERSEY! The @NJDevils acquire star forward Timo Meier from the @SanJoseSharks in exchange for a large package highlighted by @FabianZetterlund and a first-round pick! #NHLTradeDeadline" - NHL

The San Jose Sharks sent Timo Meier to the New Jersey Devils in a massive nine-player, four-draft pick deal. The Sharks sent Timo Meier, Scott Harrington, Santeri Hatakka, Timur Ibragimov, Zach Emond, and a 2024 fifth-round pick to the New Jersey Devils.

In return, the Sharks landed a 2023 first-round pick, a conditional second-round pick, Shakir Mukhamadullin, Fabian Zetterlund, Nikita Okhotiuk, Andreas Johnsson, and a 2024 seventh-round pick.

Draft picks aside, Fabian Zetterlund was a major piece of the package for the rebuilding San Jose Sharks. The talented rookie has enjoyed a solid first season, playing in 45 games while collecting 20 points. He was fantastic in November, posting 10 points in 14 games. He has struggled with consistency since then, however.

While the 23-year-old Swedish forward may never become a superstar for the San Jose Sharks, he may become a solid middle-six forward for the rebuilding roster. Over the last three seasons in the AHL, Zetterlund posted 90 points (39 goals, 51 assists), eventually earning a permanent gig with the New Jersey Devils.

"Former #NJDevils Fabian Zetterlund thanked the Devils organization in a recent post saying it has been a pleasure to be part of this group of guys: Fabian’s Instagram Page" - Kristy Flannery

Zetterlund should have plenty of opportunities to expand his role with the San Jose Sharks. That role may expand even more as the Sharks are likely to complete more moves before the NHL Trade Deadline occurs.

Who will the San Jose Sharks move next?

Now that Timo Meier has been moved by the Sharks, many fans are wondering who may be next. All eyes around the NHL have been focused on Erik Karlsson for weeks now, and a move seems inevitable at this point. Several experts have linked the talented defenseman to the Edmonton Oilers, with the financial aspect of the deal seemingly holding them back.

James Reimer may also be on the move. Though he won't fetch much on the market, the San Jose Sharks may be motivated to get whatever they can from the pending free agent. While Reimer may not be a top-tier goaltender, he would be a high-quality backup for a contender.