Meier not looking too far ahead

Dec 7, 2016

After sitting out for a month with mononucleosis, Timo Meier made his pro debut for the San Jose Barracuda on November 28. It took Meier five games to score his first pro goal, but he proceeded to score in three straight games. Now with 14 pro games under his belt, Meier is riding a career-high five-game point streak (5+3=8) and the illness seems to be far behind him.

“I’ve kind of got familiar with the AHL level, it’s different hockey than junior hockey, so I’ve kind of figured it out and know now what I have to do,” said Meier before Tuesday’s practice at Solar 4 America Ice at San Jose.

The former first round draft selection in 2015 (9th overall) by the San Jose Sharks seems to be adjusted to the American Hockey League, so it is only natural to think when he will make his long-awaited National Hockey League debut.

But for Meier, it’s not about looking too far ahead, but instead about controlling what he can control and enjoying the process. “I’m just going out there and not thinking too much. I’m really not trying to think about the NHL,” said Meier. “I’m just having fun, and trying to develop my game and become a better player every day.”

Meier has a rare combination of size and skill that is coveted by all 30 NHL clubs. The 20-year-old stands at 6-foot-1, 210-pounds and has the high-end ability to compliment his stature. He isn’t afraid to throw that weight around either and he as proven that with his willingness to go into the dirty areas in the early going of his rookie season.

In 2015, Meier was impressive during the Sharks developmental camp but was returned to his junior club the Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL) to continue to grow. After making a push at the League last year, Meier looked to have a real shot in 2016, but the illness forced the Herisau, Switzerland native to work his way through the AHL level before making the ultimate step in hockey.

It is often said that the Pacific Division in the NHL and the Western Conference is extremely physical. The type of game Meier enjoys playing and hopes he can add when he does get the call to the Sharks.

“Obviously the Division is a physical Division, and I think I can bring that physical, power-forward type of game. Driving the net and getting inside. And it’s all about going out there and playing my game.”

Meier leads the barracuda in goals (8) this season, plus/minus (+9) and is second on the team in penalty minutes (22).