As one of the main pieces of the Timo Meier trade, Fabian Zetterlund has high expectations in San Jose. Let’s look at how he’s fared and what it means for the future. Zetterlund is 25 years old and, because of this, he never fit into the Devils’ future. As New Jersey was ready to compete, Zetterlund needed time to play and grow as a player. New Jersey could not match his needs. The Devils satisfied both sides by sending Zetterlund to the Sharks and acquiring Meier. Following the trade, Zetterlund saw action in just 22 games, which is a tough amount of time for a player to adjust. Let’s take a look at his first full year in teal, 2023-24.
Fabian Zetterlund Projections Based on Previous 2023-24 Campaign
When he was given a big role for the first time, Zetterlund had a great year, given the circumstances. At just 2.20, San Jose finished 31st in the league in goals per game with a power play percentage of 20.2%. Considering these team stats, it’s hard to imagine any player finding consistent production. Conversely, that is exactly what Zetterlund did. He played in all 82 games, led the team with 24 goals and finished third with 44 points. Zetterlund was also third among forwards with just under 19 minutes per game.
One of the most underrated aspects of Zetterlund’s season was his shot total. He finished with 204 shots, which was a career-high and led the team. This led to a shooting percentage of 11.8%. That shot total indicates someone who doesn’t lack the confidence to shoot the puck. Combine the tendency to shoot, with the elevated shooting percentage, shows that he has the skill to score. Sharks fans should be excited about this trend and the potential jump in scoring that is in store, which we’ll dive into later.
His Wingmen
Another interesting piece to Zetterlund’s season is who he played with. He spent approximately 20% of his ice time playing with Mikael Granlund and Anthony Duclair. Duclair is no longer under contract with the Sharks as he signed with the New York Islanders. Meanwhil,e Granlund has one year left on his contract. Granlund, a veteran playmaker, logged a career-high in assists and built strong chemistry with Zetterlund.
The other fascinating player that Zetterlund spent time with is William Eklund. Eklund had a terrific rookie year, giving fans a glimpse into his potential. On the ice together, the duo of Zetterlund and Eklund had a CF% of just over 53%, meaning they generated more chances than they gave up. Both players found success individually and with who they were on the ice with as a line. Their connection extended off the ice, as the two became close. Zetterlund went on the Nasty Knuckles podcast to discuss their chemistry.
Fabian Zetterlund on his bromance with Eklund 🥹
"Yeah, you can say that we're close. We're doing almost everything together. We went on the plane together yesterday. I stopped by his town two days before, played a game with his dad and stuff. So we went on the flight together.… pic.twitter.com/jiyX0pUMLZ
— Dropping the Gloves (@dropping_gloves) September 5, 2024
Looking Ahead to Fabian Zetterlund’s 2024-25 Projections
The Sharks’ forward core, and the top six in particular, will look much different in 2024-25. Zetterlund, Eklund, and Granlund are still on the roster, but Macklin Celebrini, Will Smith, and Tyler Toffoli will join the forward group. The hype surrounding Celebrini and Smith since they were drafted is warranted. Both players are dynamic centres that make everyone around them better. Toffoli is a bonafide sniper that can score from anywhere. It’s unclear how the top six will shake out. Zetterlund will likely play with Eklund, but it remains to be seen what new head coach Ryan Warsofsky decides to do. Regardless of who he plays with, Zetterlund should have no trouble finding ways to score or set up his linemates for goals.
The biggest change that these additions make is on the power play. As mentioned, the Sharks struggled with the man advantage and needed to find ways to improve. Zetterlund, on the other hand, found success. Of his 44 points, 16 came a man up. For a group that had a tough time finding the back of the net, Zetterlund seemed comfortable. This year, the power play will feature some combination of Zetterlund, Celebrini, Eklund, Toffoli, and Smith. If Zetterlund can find his way to the top unit, expect him to capitalize on his opportunities.
Trying to Prove It
Earlier, we touched on his shot total and shooting percentage and why he is in line for a jump. Last year, his shooting percentage was 11.8% on 204 shots. As for predictions, if Fabian Zetterlund can jump from 204 to 250 shots and maintain a shooting percentage of around 11%, he would be in line for 29 goals. In 2023-24, 79 players had over 200 shots and 28 had over 250. With all of the new talent around him and the potential opportunities he will get, this jump is possible.
Zetterlund has one year left on his contract before he becomes a restricted free agent. If he wants to become an integral part of the Sharks’ future, a big year is vital. He has the talent and track record and, with new teammates, the supporting cast to make a big jump. San Jose likely won’t make the playoffs, but a breakout campaign from Zetterlund will go a long way in finding the core of the future.
Main Photo: David Gonzales – USA TODAY Sports
