This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/24/2016
Presented here is an incredible and historical piece that is sure to raise some eyebrows: Doug Wilson's game-worn jersey from the San Jose Sharks' first ever game as an NHL franchise! 1991-92 marked the inaugural season for the San Jose Sharks as they finished in sixth place in the Smythe Division with a record of 17-58-5 for a total of 39 points. The Sharks officially began their reign in the NHL with their first game October 4, 1991 on the road against the Vancouver Canucks. In the video above at the 3:50 mark, Wilson can be seen walking out of the visiting locker room before the opening face-off. The Sharks battled hard, but dropped a 4-3 decision. The teal jersey offered here was worn by San Jose Sharks Captain Doug Wilson on that very night. The longtime Chicago Blackhawk and 7-time All-Star defenseman felt no need to wear a helmet on the ice and was known for his renegade style of play. Wilson was a key member of the expansion Sharks as he closed out his 16-year NHL career with his final two in San Jose. He has been the team's General Manager since 2003.
The CCM Maska Air-Knit road jersey has been signed by Wilson in black marker on the back '2' of his uniform number. The oversized Sharks logo patch is sewn on the front and stretches 14” across. His number “24” in white with black trim appears on the back and in smaller fashion with the Sharks' Fin logo sewn on both sleeves. "WILSON" in white with black trim is sewn on a teal nameplate across the back. The official CCM and NHL logos can be found sewn onto the rear right waistband. Fight strap is present on the inside. Size 52 tag is sewn into the rear inside collar next to the Maska Air-Knit manufacturer’s tag. The NHL’s “75th” anniversary patch resides on the right front chest, while Wilson’s letter “C” for Captain in white outlined in black occupies the left chest area. Letters and numbers are all original. Jersey shows outstanding game use, with two team repairs on the left sleeve, puck and stick marks on both sleeves, slash marks on the back numbers, and multiple board burns across the lower front. There is a light tone of teal color fading on the front of the sweater from it being displayed and exposed to sunlight at the Newport Sports Museum. What a magnificent game-worn jersey that commemorates an special night in San Jose Sharks history.
Includes 2/25/1992 LOA from Doug Wilson. Letter of Provenance from the Newport Sports Museum. Autograph pre-certified by PSA/DNA.