Sharks top pick Michael Misa names surprising NY Islanders prospect as best opponent

When San Jose Sharks first-round pick (2nd overall) Michael Misa was asked who the best hockey player he's ever played against was, his answer came without hesitation: It was a New York Islanders prospect, but it wasn't top overall selection Matthew Schaefer; it was another Matthew, Maggio, that popped into his head.

Misa, the first overall pick in the 2022 OHL Draft and the best forward draftee of the past year, was asked the question along with other top prospects. While most named players from their recent draft class stood out, Maggio's name stood out in particular, given that he is two years removed from lighting the OHL on fire. Schaefer, for example, said it was Jack Ivankovic, the OHL goaltender who was selected in the 2nd round by the Nashville Predators and will be playing at Michigan.

Maggio earned that kind of respect the hard way. Just two seasons ago, he led the entire Ontario Hockey League in scoring with 54 goals and 111 points in 66 games for the Windsor Spitfires, claiming the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy as the OHL’s top point-getter. It was a breakout campaign that forced scouts and GMs to take notice, especially after he went undrafted in his first year of eligibility.

The Islanders snagged Maggio in the fifth round of the 2022 NHL Draft and signed him to an entry-level deal after his standout junior season. But his transition to the AHL with Bridgeport hasn’t been seamless. While flashes of his offensive upside remain evident, he’s yet to carve out a consistent role or replicate his junior production at the pro level.

After a respectable 16 games in 61 in his first full professional season, Maggio's production dropped to only seven goals in 60 games for a porous Bridgeport team. The hope is that with Rocky Thompson behind the bench, the AHL affiliate, celebrating its 25th season, will bounce back to respectability and rejuvenate some of the player development, including Maggio's.

Still, no one is questioning his drive. Maggio is known for his work ethic, team-first mindset, and willingness to adapt. Those who’ve played with him and coached him believe it's only a matter of time before his game clicks at the next level. If Michael Misa’s words are any indication, Maggio’s ceiling remains high. With the right development and opportunity, he could still become the latest late-round success story for the Islanders.