Sharks Acquire Defenseman Eric Pohlkamp
San Jose Sharks General Manager Mike Grier recently announced the acquisition of defenseman Eric Pohlkamp. The young player has signed a two-year, entry-level contract with the team. Pohlkamp, who is 22 years old, has shown impressive performance at the collegiate level.
Eric Pohlkamp’s Collegiate Success
Pohlkamp spent the 2023 season with the University of Denver, where he achieved 39 points, including 18 goals and 21 assists, in just 43 games. His remarkable season made him a standout among collegiate defensemen. Notably, he led all defensemen in goals and points.
Significant Achievements
- First in goals among collegiate defensemen.
- Team leader in points (39), shots (188), and blocked shots (83).
- Tied for second in game-winning goals with three.
- Recorded 11 multi-point games, including three with three points each.
- Scored his first collegiate hat trick on November 10 against Bentley University.
- Key contributor to Denver’s National Championship victory.
Pohlkamp’s performance earned him multiple accolades, including the HCA National Defenseman of the Month and NCHC Defenseman of the Month in November. He was also a Top-3 Finalist for the Hobey Baker Award and selected for the AHCA First All-America Team.
Career Overview
Throughout his NCAA career, Pohlkamp participated in 119 games, amassing 98 points (40 goals, 58 assists). Prior to college, he played two seasons in the USHL with the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders. In 120 games, he tallied 69 points (23 goals, 46 assists).
Recent Awards
- USHL Defenseman of the Year (2022-23).
- First All-Star team selection.
- Tied for third in assists and second in goals among defensemen.
In the international arena, Pohlkamp represented Team USA at the 2024 World Junior Championships, contributing three points in seven games. Standing at five feet eleven inches and weighing 205 pounds, Pohlkamp was drafted by the San Jose Sharks in the fifth round, 132nd overall, during the 2023 NHL Draft.
