NHL Draft 2012: With the No. 17 Pick, San Jose Sharks Select Tomas Hertl from Slavia in the Czech League

Born in Prague, Hertl was ranked as the fifth overall European skater by NHL Central Scouting, and ranked 19th overall by TSN in their June 2012 draft rankings.

At 6’2” and 198 pounds, Hertl is expected to develop into a strong power forward, and has already shown he is willing to drive to the net and create offense in international play. Scoring three goals and two assists in six games with Czech team that advanced to the quarterfinals, Hertl was a player that many felt upped his game on the big stage. Considered an average playmaker, his calling card is a powerful, accurate shot he’s willing to unleash at any opportunity.

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