"We were pleased with Max's improvement last season as he went from a first-year pro to a reliable two-way player for the Barracuda," said Wilson. "His unique combination of size and skill earned him a look at the NHL level last year and we're looking forward to seeing him take his game to new levels this upcoming season."
Letunov, 24, made his NHL debut on Feb. 4, 2020 at Calgary, and scored his first career goal on Feb. 6 at Edmonton. He played in three NHL games for the Sharks during 2019-20 and posted one goal and three shots on goal. He split time last season with the San Jose Barracuda, the Sharks American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, and recorded 40 points (12 goals, 28 assists) and 12 penalty minutes in 50 games. He led all Barracuda skaters in points and assists, and his two game-winning goals were tied for third on the team.
In 107 career AHL games, all with the Barracuda, Letunov has registered 68 points (24 goals, 44 assists) and 32 penalty minutes. He has appeared in three Calder Cup playoff games, adding two assists and a plus-2 rating.
Prior to turning pro, in 105 career NCAA games, Letunov recorded 95 points (35 goals, 60 assists) and 39 penalty minutes with the University of Connecticut. He led his team in assists, points and tied for first in goals during his final season and was named to the Hockey East Second All-Star Team. During his freshman season, he set three new UConn rookie scoring records for goals (16), assists (24) and points (40). His 40 points that year still ranks as the fourth highest total in University of Connecticut history (NCAA) and the highest since the 2011-12 season. Before joining UConn, Letunov registered 107 points (44 goals, 63 assists) in 118 games over two seasons with the Youngstown Phantoms (USHL).
The six-foot-four, 180-pound native of Moscow, Russia, was originally drafted by the St. Louis Blues in the second round (55th overall) of the 2014 NHL Draft. On June 20, 2016, the San Jose Sharks acquired his rights from the Arizona Coyotes.
