Date of birth: 11/12/1993
Height: 6′ 3″
Weight: 195
Position: C
Acquired: Drafted in the 1st round, 17th overall in 2012 by San Jose
Corey Pronman Hockey Prospectus – @coreypronman
Year in Review: Hertl had a very good season, as he was one of the top young players in the Czech league in a while. He also was a top player at the World Juniors, and he got time with the Czech national team.
The Good: Hertl is an immensely-skilled player who brings multiple dimensions to his game. His puck skills are high end, he has a high level of creativity, and he can be a nuisance for defenders to check, even for a big man. Hertl is also a pretty smart two-way player, with the vision to make plays in the offensive end and the defensive skills to play against good players and kill penalties effectively. He has a big body, he can protect the puck well, and he will grind out battles in the corner.
The Bad: Hertl needs to continue working on his skating to get quicker. He also needs to gain more strength to make the eventual jump to the NHL.
Projection: He could be a below-average top line center.
Internationals Scouting Services – @ISSHockey
Hertl has been a rare grown and developed at home player for the Czech Republic, but he is also one of their top young prospects in recent years. A very talented offensive playmaker, Hertl has excellent puck skills, shows good developing power instincts and has the benefit of having produced already in a top quality league in Europe. He is a player who knows how to place his shots well and could earn a full time spot with the Sharks very soon.
Dobber Prospects – @dobberprospects
October 2013 – Hertl really came out of the gates strong and has done quite well amassing goals playing alongside Joe Thornton and Brent Burns. This is very much helping him build his case for the Calder trophy. His four goal night was pretty impressive, but he will not and cannot keep up that kind of pace. Expect a bit of a slower mid season with him regaining his form later in the season as rookies tend to do. Tim Graveline
Carl Maloney of The Hockey Writers – @maloney3383
Hertl has honed his skills playing in the Czech elite league and appears ready for the NHL. The Sharks first round pick in 2012 is a complete player and is proficient in all three zones as well as good in the faceoff circle. Projected to not only make the team, but potentially suit up beside captain Joe Thornton, he could be a significant addition for the Sharks this year.
The team could also be looking at Thornton’s heir apparent, and take over his spot as a one-two punch with Logan Couture when he retires.
Hertl’s four goal game against the Rangers
Hertl drafted by the Sharks with the 17th pick in 2012
