Ryan Merkley, a defenseman drafted by San Jose 21st overall in 2018, has reportedly been told not to return to his OHL team while he attends the Sharks' rookie camp. According to "OHLInsiders", Merkley made the revelation himself in a text to his teammates with the Peterborough Petes.
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Merkley, 19, has been the subject of trade rumours since his season in the OHL ended. While there is no question about his talent, there are plenty regarding his attitude. Merkley had publicly argued with his coach during the 2017-2018 season while playing with the Guelph Storm, something he was sent back to the dressing room for, and was suspended three games for a dangerous and undisciplined, two-handed slash at an opponent who had whacked him on the hand. Merkley had recorded 5 goals and 39 points in just 28 games to start the 2018–2019 season with Guelph. Despite his hot start, he was traded anyway, something many believe was directly related to his attitude and lack of maturity.
OHLInsiders states it's unlikely the Petes find a trading partner given Merkley's history.
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