John Leonard – Left Wing
Selected: Round 6 (182nd Overall)
Shoots: Left
Height: 5’11
Weight: 185 lbs.
Country: United States
Current Team: University of Massachusetts Amherst (NCAA/Hockey East)
Another over-age pick for the Sharks, John Leonard has already played his freshman year at UMass Amherst this past season. Another late bloomer, Leonard has respectable numbers for a freshman player leading his team with 29 points in 33 games including 3 game winners. He joins teammate Mario Ferraro (2017 2nd Round, 49th overall) in the Sharks prospect pool. Steve Kournianos had him 78th on his list of 250 over-agers back in November of 2017.
UMass Head Coach Greg Carvel had the following to say about Leonard Courtesy of MassLive.com
“I’m very excited for Johnny after being selected by San Jose in today’s NHL draft. He is a gifted offensive player that worked hard this year to develop himself into a more complete hockey player both on and off of the ice. I expect him to be one of the best offensive players in the Hockey East during his remaining time at UMass.
He has the ability to score at the pro level, but knows he needs to improve his habits without the puck. This selection should provide great motivation for him to continue his growth as a player and as a teammate. He has offensive ability that is hard to teach and I’m glad San Jose recognized his great potential.”
Ian’s Grade: C
Peep these 👀, @SanJoseSharks fans (we know #UMassNation already knows how exciting @JohnnyLeonard24 is to watch).
Last clip was #SCTop10 during the @hockey_east playoffs 🔥 #NewMass #Flagship🚩 pic.twitter.com/FTShdHolq1
— UMass Hockey (@UMassHockey) June 23, 2018