Vincent Desharnais Bio
Vincent Desharnais is a Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman currently playing for the San Jose Sharks in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in the seventh round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, Desharnais has developed his career steadily since turning professional in 2019.
Early Life and Background
Vincent Desharnais was born on May 29, 1996, in Laval, Quebec, Canada. He grew up in a family with a strong hockey influence, citing his father Jacques and brother Alex as key inspirations in his development as a player. His early exposure to hockey in Quebec laid the foundation for his future in the sport.
Desharnais played junior hockey with the Chilliwack Chiefs of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) before committing to Providence College. His time at Providence College from 2015 to 2019 was crucial in honing his skills and preparing him for professional hockey.
Path to Hockey
During his collegiate career at Providence College, Desharnais developed into a reliable defenceman, gaining attention for his defensive skills and leadership qualities. His performance earned him selection by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, taken 183rd overall in the seventh round during his third year of draft eligibility.
Following college, Desharnais transitioned to professional hockey, beginning with minor league teams where he continued to improve and showcase his potential, setting the stage for his NHL debut.
Vincent Desharnais Career
Early Career (2019–2022)
Vincent Desharnais began his professional career in 2019, playing for the Wichita Thunder in the ECHL. Over three seasons, he demonstrated consistent development and adaptability. In 2021, he moved up to the Bakersfield Condors of the American Hockey League (AHL), the primary development affiliate for the Edmonton Oilers, where he continued to refine his defensive play.
His steady progress earned him a two-year entry-level contract with the Edmonton Oilers in March 2022, marking a significant milestone in his professional journey.
Edmonton Oilers Breakthrough (2022–2024)
Desharnais made his NHL debut with the Edmonton Oilers on January 11, 2023, contributing to a 6–2 victory over the Anaheim Ducks. His first NHL goal came later that year on October 29, 2023, during an outdoor game against the Calgary Flames, helping the Oilers secure a 5–2 win.
During his time with the Oilers, Desharnais established himself as a dependable defenceman, gaining valuable experience at the highest level of professional hockey.
Vancouver Canucks and Pittsburgh Penguins Era (2024–2025)
On July 1, 2024, Desharnais signed a two-year contract with the Vancouver Canucks as an unrestricted free agent. His tenure with the Canucks was brief, as he was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins on January 31, 2025, in a multi-player deal involving draft picks and prospects.
San Jose Sharks Era (2025–Present)
Shortly after joining the Penguins, Desharnais was traded to the San Jose Sharks on March 5, 2025, in exchange for a 2028 fifth-round draft pick. He currently plays for the Sharks, continuing to develop his game and contribute to the team’s defensive corps.
Playing Style and Strengths
Vincent Desharnais is known for his size and defensive reliability, standing 201 cm tall and weighing 102 kg. His style emphasizes strong positional play and physicality, making him effective in protecting his zone and supporting his team’s defensive structure.
Notable Events and Milestones
Key milestones in Desharnais’s career include his NHL debut in 2023 and his first NHL goal scored during a high-profile outdoor game. These moments highlight his progression from a late-round draft pick to an NHL regular.
Vincent Desharnais Career Wins
While primarily a defensive player, Desharnais has contributed offensively at key moments, including his first NHL goal in 2023. His career continues to evolve as he gains experience across multiple NHL teams and leagues.
Professional Highlights
Desharnais’s professional journey includes significant time in the ECHL and AHL before breaking into the NHL. His first NHL goal and steady defensive play mark important highlights in his career trajectory.
Other Performances
Before reaching the NHL, Desharnais played important roles in minor leagues, including the Wichita Thunder and Bakersfield Condors, where he developed the skills necessary for the top level.
Vincent Desharnais Family
Family Background and Hockey Lineage
Desharnais is the youngest member of his family, with his father Jacques and brother Alex serving as early hockey influences. Their support helped shape his dedication to the sport from a young age.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Vincent Desharnais experienced multiple team changes, moving from the Vancouver Canucks to the Pittsburgh Penguins and then to the San Jose Sharks. These transitions reflect his growing value as a versatile defenseman in the NHL. His adaptability and steady defensive contributions are expected to be key assets for the Sharks as they build their roster.