Sharks sign 2023 first-round pick C Will Smith

Field Level Media|published: Tue 28th May, 14:02 2024

Apr 11, 2024; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Boston College Eagles forward Will Smith (6) carries the puck in the semifinals of the 2024 Frozen Four college ice hockey tournament against the Michigan Wolverines at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

The San Jose Sharks signed 2023 first-round pick Will Smith to an entry-level contract on Tuesday.

The 19-year-old center from Lexington, Mass., was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft.

As a freshman at Boston College in 2023-24, Smith led the nation with 71 points (25 goals, 46 assists) in 41 games.

"Will is a dynamic and exciting young center and we are thrilled to have him join the organization after an impressive season with Boston College," Sharks general manager Mike Grier said in a release. "We felt that this is the next best step for his development to becoming a full-time NHL player, and we are looking forward to seeing him compete at the highest level of hockey."

Smith earned AHCA East First Team All-America, NCAA Frozen Four All-Tournament Team, Hockey East Tournament MVP, Hockey East First All-Star Team and Hockey East All-Rookie Team honors.

He also helped the United States win gold medals at the 2023 World U18 Championships and 2024 World Junior Championships.

--Field Level Media