Artemi Kniazev has earned his rightful place as number 20 on our list for being a two-defenseman who’s strong on the forecheck, and could be (god-willing) the next Erik Karlsson.
Kniazev is on the younger side of the prospect pool, at just 21 years old. He made his professional debut this season, for the San Jose Barracuda, but the San Jose Sharks have had their eye on him since he was drafted by the franchise in the second round of the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, at 48th overall. He’s currently signed to an entry-level contract through to the 2023-24 season, which will give him and the organization plenty of time to ensure his continued progression within the system.