Like chess players, general managers always have to be thinking several moves ahead. Doug Wilson has done that with the San Jose Sharks regarding the 2017 NHL Expansion Draft.
Las Vegas will take exactly one player from the Pacific Division-rival Sharks and every other team by June 20, 2017. The details of the draft rules are not going to be examined here beyond the basics.
Teams can protect a goalie along with either eight skaters or specifically seven forwards and three defensemen. Draft picks, prospects and players that have not been in the AHL or NHL for two years do not have to be protected.