Sharks Beat Nashville In Overtime

Marleau skates in, shoots, SCORES! Patrick Marleau wins it in overtime!

The San Jose Sharks win again at home, this time against the visiting Nashville Predators. Definitely a game to help forget the losing effort just three days ago when the chippy Stars team paid a visit from Dallas. When the Predators visited in December, they handed the Sharks a narrow 2-1 loss, so the Sharks had all the more reason to beat them this time on home ice.

Each of the first two periods ended with one goal per team, with the Sharks scoring first each time. Just over eight minutes into the first period, Ryane Clowe tipped the puck into the net, fed by Dany Heatley and Jason Demers, to bring the score to 1-0 Sharks. The Predators struck back late in the first with a power play goal by Joel Ward, and the score remained 1-1 through the end of the first.

During the second period, defenseman Justin Braun shot the puck from the point, scoring on a bewildered Predators netminder, Pekka Rinne, after the puck bounced off of a couple of Predators players before finding its way to the back of the net. The Sharks’ lead was short lived after a too many men penalty against them gave the Predators’ power line time to capitalize, allowing defenseman Shea Weber an opportunity to score, which he promptly did, to bring the tally to 2-2.

The Sharks turned up the heat in the third period. They maintained fabulous puck control, fired quality shots on net, made great passes, and quickly recovered the puck when the Predators had been able to gain brief control. While the Sharks dominated puck control and shots on net, the Predators’ netminder Pekka Rinne was responsible for keeping the Predators alive. Even with well-placed shots, the Sharks failed to get the puck to cross the goal line.

With four seconds left in the third period, the Predators iced the puck, placing the face-off in their zone. The Sharks almost managed to score before their forced overtime, with the draw cleanly won by Joe Pavelski, and Ian White blasting the available puck towards the net.

During overtime, the Sharks almost lost after a potentially dangerous turnover in their zone. Fortunately, the Sharks recovered, performing a few fast-paced two on ones, although it was the final two on one momentum with Ian White and Patrick Marleau that ended it all. Marleau skated in the zone with the puck, and using White as a decoy, proceeded to shoot the puck at the net. Although the Predators defenseman got a piece of the puck with his skate, Marleau’s shot was hard enough to beat Rinne for the win.

Congratulations to the Sharks on their hard-fought win!

Last note: In case some of you are interested, Logan Couture won the informal Sharks’ fan poll to answer the question, “Who is the best two-way forward on the Sharks right now?” I actually voted for Ryane Clowe (who came in second), but it could have been Jamie Baker’s obvious nod to Couture that may have influenced the vote – haha. Not saying that’s bad, as Couture is a total stud. But still, would have been interesting to see the results had Baker not circled Couture’s name on the polling list.

I will be away for the next two games (Thursday’s against the Vancouver Canucks and Saturday’s against the New York Rangers) to play in a hockey tournament (who would’ve thought?). so I will not return until Monday, when the Sharks take on the Blackhawks in Chicago.

GO SHARKS!

Stars End Sharks’ Streak At Home

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. Such was the case for the San Jose Sharks, narrowly losing to the Dallas Stars at home, with the score of 3-2.

With the loss, the Sharks still remain in third place in the Western Conference standings and atop the Pacific Division. Some writers or analysts may state the Sharks have “suddenly discovered how the Pacific Division may be more difficult than expected” due to their loss to the Stars. In reality, for the Sharks, it was a bad game, and for the Stars, it was a fortunate win. To win eight games in a row is in itself a great accomplishment, and most Sharks fans are cognizant of that.

Although it is good to be in a solid third place position this close to the regular season’s end, those who were able to watch the game either at the Tank or on television may be more than a bit disappointed with how the loss played out. With the combination of the Sharks’ messy play, the horrible officiating, the bad bounces, and the dirty cheap shots by the Stars players, the loss did not sit well at all with the fans. The game did not play out like a typical gentlemen’s loss, but instead a bitter end to a chippy game.

Unlike the visible explosiveness of the Sharks team from the Detroit Red Wings game two days prior, I saw a Sharks team reminiscent of last year’s first two games against the Colorado Avalanche in the Conference Quarterfinals. For the Sharks, passes missed the mark, turnovers were given away, players could not properly handle the puck, and others had to maneuver to keep from hitting one another. To make matters worse, Stars forward Jamie Benn managed to sneak past the Sharks defenses on a power play to score a short-handed, breakaway goal just over a minute into the game.

It was then the Sharks picked up their pace.

Sharks forward Kyle Wellwood perfectly tipped in a shot to even out the score to 1-1 by the end of the first period, and by the second period, the rejuvenated Sharks were playing to their typical high level. Just over a minute into the second period, Sharks forwards Dany Heatley and Patrick Marleau executed a textbook two on one for Marleau’s 26th goal of the year, giving the Sharks their first lead of the game.

Throughout the period, the Sharks demonstrated better puck control, more shots, and some well-placed hits. It is always nice to see big Ben Eager get fired up and throw his body around. Defenseman Douglas Murray also did what he does best: block shots, clear the puck, and deliver great, clean hits. The Stars players, mad about being sent to the ice, all attempted to retaliate, but Murray confidently brushed them away.

The third period unfortunately saw the Stars score two more goals that managed to beat goaltender Antti Niemi. Both Stars goals occurred in front of the net: one bounced to a waiting Loui Eriksson, and the other redirected off of Dany Heatley’s stick by accident. Goaltender Antti Niemi, although allowing three goals in the contest, did not play a bad game. He still managed to fight off screens to stop wayward pucks and even executed a brilliant save on the Stars' Mike Ribeiro on an open net opportunity.

While the progression of the period saw the Sharks attempt to score again, nothing seemed to be working. Puck battles bounced in the Stars’ favor, opportunities for Shark goals would be thwarted by un-penalized cheap shots (case in point, the tackling of Joe Pavelski close to the end of the third period on a scoring opportunity), and a legitimate goal late in the third was waved off by the officials. There was even one instance where the Stars’ goalie tripped up Ryane Clowe, with Clowe being sent to the penalty box for goaltender interference.

Although the Sharks earned no points for their efforts, as fans we must keep this game in the history books the way it played out: a fluke.

The Sharks have two days to pull he team together to re-energize before their Tuesday night game against the Nashville Predators at the Shark Tank. Go Sharks!

Black and Teal

Here's yet another hip hop video featuring San Jose by local artists, this time honoring the Sharks! Hat tip to Quan for the link.

Sharks Win Again, Dominate At Home

The San Jose Sharks faced the star-studded Detroit Red Wings team at home, emerging on top, with the final score of 3-1 Sharks. Whether it could have been an energetic locker room speech or a desirable incentive, whatever it was, the solution worked. From the very onset of the game, the Sharks played with dynamic intensity, and the fans in the Shark Tank felt the team’s energetic presence. Despite the large number of jeering and heckling Red Wings fans attempting to infest the Tank with their mediocre “shout over the Sharks’ cheers” support, the true hearts of teal quashed any hope those wearing Red Wings jerseys had with booming cheers and standing ovations during the course of the Sharks’ domination.

With their win, the Sharks extend their win streak to eight games in a row.

San Jose Sharks forward Dany Heatley, a name notably missing from our recent post-game entries, made a triumphant return, not only notching two goals (after scoring only one in the last twelve games), but executing an array of fantastic plays: throwing his body around (one time knocking Detroit forward Pavel Datsyuk’s helmet off), winning the corner battles, and turning hard backchecks into successful takeaways. Heatley walked away as the game’s first star, and well deservedly so. This was the Heatley fans had been waiting for.

During the course of the game, each period’s hard fought battles was rightly won by the Sharks. Although the Sharks only capitalized on one of three power plays (as did the Red Wings), the Sharks’ true domination with puck control and passing came during even strength hockey. In fact, the Sharks almost made their puck control look too easy, making even strength hockey look as if they were on a power play. (Perhaps Sharks coach Todd McLellan should trick his players into thinking they’re playing even strength hockey when a power play opportunity comes? Just kidding.)

Nevertheless, each action-packed period carried a goal by the Sharks, and in between each goal, the Sharks demonstrated their Cup-contending skills with competent offensive zone play. Sharks fans at the Tank loudly showed their support every time the Sharks set up goals, put terrific shots on net, and continually recovered the puck when the Red Wings would attempt to break out of their zone.

The Red Wings’ fate was sealed late in the third period when a forechecking Patrick Marleau caught the Red Wings’ netminder by surprise and sent an awkwardly deflected tip into the back of the net. With the Red Wings’ net empty soon thereafter, Dany Heatley managed to get close to scoring a hat trick, although with a tough front put up by the Red Wings’ defense and given he was skating down the right side of the ice as a left-handed shot, Heatley’s shot careened over the net.

Watching the Sharks play so well, even without the extremely visible presence of veteran defenseman Dan Boyle, is evidence of how well the team has really come together. Just look at what we (as Sharks fans) have been witness to in recent times: our puck control and defense has significantly improved, and each of our recent acquisitions have been big wins. To elaborate on our recent acquisitions, look at who we have acquired:

- Ben Eager, a gritty, hard-working forward, who ironically proved to be a real pain for the Sharks during last year’s playoffs as a member of the Stanley Cup-winning Chicago Blackhawks team. After his match penalty in Atlanta, the team could not wait to get rid of him (at least the local sports writers were vocal about it, as seen here – link), and subsequently dealt him to the Sharks. Upon his arrival in San Jose, Eager has scored, backed up teammates, contributed with of his signature big hits, and revealed his amazing hidden skill: a fast and powerful wrist shot. (Just ask the Anaheim Ducks.)

- Kyle Wellwood, a forward with playing ability highly reminiscent of Sharks fan favorite Scott Nichol (who is currently on injured reserve). Wellwood has not only scored multiple times, his intensity and talented stickhandling ability make him a terrifically effective forward.

- Defenseman Ian White, recently acquired from the Carolina Hurricanes. YouTube has made him particularly famous from clips of him laying bone-crunching hits, then proceeding to beat his target in a fight if the target of his hit decided to retaliate. Much like the great majority of the Sharks’ defensive lineup, he plays a very offensive game. Although many critics tend to criticize non-stay-at-home defenders, White plays his game with surprising efficacy. Watch him pinch in at the right time to keep the puck in the zone and carry the puck out of the zone by him self and pass it to a teammate already going at full speed to stymie the opposing team’s defense.

The Sharks play the Dallas Stars this Saturday at the Shark Tank at 7:30pm. Hope to see many of you supportive fans there!

Sharks Win Again, Sweep the Avalanche At Home

San Jose Sharks forward Ryane Clowe’s shootout skills win it again for the Sharks in the second straight game, putting the Sharks’ win streak at seven games in a row. The Sharks endured a nail-biting battle against a much-rejuvenated Colorado Avalanche team, hungry for revenge after their domination by the Sharks less than two weeks ago at the Shark Tank to the tune of a 4-0 loss. During the contest, Devin Setoguchi managed his first ever NHL hat trick.

Due to the defensive prowess of both teams, the first two periods remained scoreless. Avalanche defenseman Erik Johnson quickly changed things with a power play goal just 1:18 into the third period to put the Avalanche up 1-0. Due to the slow scoring pace of the game, Johnson’s goal proved to be a significant game-breaker for the Sharks. The Johnson goal continued to be so until a very late third period goal by Joe Thornton tied the game up at 1-1, adding the much-needed energy to the San Jose fans in the Shark Tank and sending the game into overtime.

Overtime remained more of the same with an edge in puck control by the Sharks. Once the overtime period ended scoreless, the Sharks took control in the shootout, beginning with a Ryane Clowe goal, and followed up by Niemi successfully stopping all three Avalanche players from scoring.

Niemi again proved to be a much-valued asset for the Sharks organization. (No wonder the Sharks jumped at the opportunity to extend his contract.) Earlier this afternoon, Niemi signed a $15.2 million, four-year contract extension.

(It also helps that San Jose happens to be a wonderful place to live. Just ask any NHL player who has ever spent time here.)

For the Sharks, honorable mentions go to:

- Defenseman Ian White, who displayed his solid offensive skills by pinching in properly and effectively breaking out of the defensive zone to give the Sharks’ offense proper momentum.
- Antti Niemi, although facing only nineteen shots (as opposed to the Sharks’ thirty-five on Avalanche netminder Brian Elliott), the great majority of the shots he faced were dangerous. To top off his dominant play during regulation, he denied all three Avalanche shooters in the shootout to seal the Sharks’ win.
- Forward Joe Pavelski, contributing greatly to the Sharks’ dominant puck control. In addition, he almost scored when his shot beat the Avalanche netminder, but failed to beat the hard, iron crossbar.
- Captain Joe Thornton, playing another fantastic set-up game and scoring the goal that sent the Sharks into overtime.

As for the Avalanche, honorable mentions go to:

- Newly acquired defender, Erik Johnson, who went first overall in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft to the St. Louis Blues. Johnson proved to be a massive thorn in the Sharks’ side by not only blocking many shots and turning away scoring opportunities, but scoring the Avalanche’s only goal. Most notably, during a rush by Joe Pavelski in the overtime period, it was Johnson’s stick that kept Pavelski from succeeding.
- Goaltender Brian Elliott only allowed one goal (not including the shootout goal) out of the thirty-five shots from San Jose. He was the key in keeping the Sharks off of the scoreboard.

Catch the Sharks next Thursday, the 3rd, as the Sharks again face the Detroit Red Wings at home.

Sharks Sweep Road Trip With Three Wins

The San Jose Sharks mounted a successful road campaign – their second in February – against three strong teams: the Detroit Red Wings (currently 2nd in the West), Pittsburgh Penguins (currently 4th in the East), and the Calgary Flames (currently 7th in the West), returning home with the momentum of a six game win streak. Next Tuesday, March 1st, the Sharks face the Colorado Avalanche at the Shark Tank.

Most impressive about the Sharks’ recent performance has been their overall patience and determination. Each of the three road games resulted in very close contests: the Sharks edged the Red Wings only by one goal at the end of regulation, the Sharks defeated the Penguins with only four seconds left in overtime, and the Sharks needed a shootout win to best the Flames.

Earlier in the season, fans grew accustomed to seeing the Sharks explode in the beginning and opening their lead, before allowing opposing teams to stage their comeback late in the third period. Now, fans have a team to be proud of supporting. The Sharks have since overcome deficits and maintained leads acquired early on. Fans are now witness to the regular season dominating team they've been used to watching.

In addition to the Sharks’ improved efficacy in their team play, the newcomers have all proven to be effective to the lineup as well. Forwards Ben Eager and Kyle Wellwood, in addition to defenseman Ian White, have all significantly contributed to the Sharks’ recent hot streak.

The Sharks have also seen their veteran talent, with the likes of Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau, and Dany Heatley, become more productive. Thornton’s second star honors for his performance in Calgary, despite not registering a point, came from his high work ethic: setting up his teammates, maintaining great puck control, and capable back-checking. Had several of his set up teammates been able to score, Thornton would have managed a few pretty assists for the highlight reel.

To briefly recap the Sharks’ 4-3 shootout victory over the Calgary Flames, Dan Boyle was out for the first time all season, Logan Couture increased his already-impressive points streak with the assist on the first goal, and Devin Setoguchi scored yet again. Ryane Clowe also did not fail to disappoint, not only scoring the game tying goal late in the third, but burying the only goal in the shootout, beating Flames goaltender Miikka Kiprusoff, to seal the Sharks’ victory. (This, of course, during a night when Kiprusoff clearly dominated the net, earning himself a well-deserved first star honors.)

As long as the Sharks maintain their visible patience and determination, Sharks fans should be treated to an exciting March home game stretch to watch their team win more games at the Shark Tank.

Based on the recent trades, acquisitions, and line configurations, there is no doubt the San Jose Sharks are taking their past post-season woes seriously.

Exciting Game In Detroit Extends Sharks’ Win Streak

The San Jose Sharks come out on top in a hard-fought match against the dynamic Detroit Red Wings team, narrowly winning with the score of 4-3. While the Sharks snapped the Red Wings’ win streak at five, the Sharks extend their win streak to four. Sharks forward Devin Setoguchi, currently on a hot streak with ten goals in his last thirteen games, nets two (after his first ever NHL hat trick last Saturday at the Shark Tank against the Colorado Avalanche), and Sharks captain Joe Thornton scores his 300th career NHL goal. In addition, for the first time in San Jose Sharks franchise history, the Sharks sweep the Red Wings at their home in Detroit.

From the onset, the game was rife with playoff-like tension. Earlier in the season, the Sharks had lost to the Red Wings in San Jose and the Sharks had beaten the Red Wings in Detroit. To add to the already thick tension, the fans in Detroit never forgot their elimination by the Sharks from last year’s 2009-2010 playoffs.

As expected, both teams came out playing strong, knowing each other’s team was an equally difficult opponent.

The first period began scoreless, and even with a four-minute high-sticking penalty followed by a two-minute high-sticking penalty against the Red Wings (both drawn by the Sharks’ Logan Couture), giving the Sharks ample five on three opportunity, the Red Wings still managed to keep the puck out of their net. Much of the Red Wings’ success was due to a combined effort of solid defensive play and the standout saves by netminder Jimmy Howard. With twenty minutes left in the first period, the Red Wings took another penalty, giving the Sharks a power play for the rest of the period. It did not take long for the Sharks to capitalize on their advantage, with Joe Thornton scoring a great goal in front of the net, giving the Sharks a 1-0 edge by the end of the first.

Succeeding the action-filled, relatively scoreless first period revealed a still action-filled, three-goal second period. Just over seven minutes into the second period, the Red Wings’ Daniel Cleary scored on a weird bounce in front of the Sharks’ net to even up the game at 1-1. Later in the second, Sharks forward Ryane Clowe brilliantly blocked a Red Wings defenseman shot to earn a breakaway, beating the Red Wings’ Howard with a backhand to bring the Sharks back up to a one goal lead, at 2-1. Before the Sharks could become comfortable with their lead, the Red Wings’ Daniel Cleary scored again thirty seconds later to even the game at 2-2. Before the second period could end, Devin Setoguchi tipped in a shot from Joe Thornton and Logan Couture to bring the Sharks again to a one goal lead by the time the period came to a close.

No scoring occurred between the two teams during most of the third period, much in part to the brilliant saves by both the Sharks’ Antti Niemi and the Red Wings’ Jimmy Howard. Thirteen minutes into the third period, the puck came to Sharks forward Devin Setoguchi at the point from a nice Joe Thornton pass, who let go a ripping slap shot past Howard to put the Sharks up at a 4-2 lead. After a Dany Heatley interference call late in the third, the Red Wings used their one man advantage to bring the score to 4-3 with a well-placed shot by Red Wings forward Henrik Zetterberg.

The Red Wings team surged late in the third to recover their one goal deficit, even attempting to pull their goaltender to crash the Sharks’ defensive zone with an extra Red Wings player. While the Red Wings almost scored, the Sharks successfully kept their lead until the very end, with the final score of 4-3, in favor of the Sharks.

With their win, the Sharks remain in fourth place in the Western Conference standings, behind the obvious first and second place teams, the Vancouver Canucks and the Detroit Red Wings, respectively, and just one point behind the Phoenix Coyotes, another team on a massive winning surge.

Honorable mentions go to the Sharks defensive line, who have all played strong, hard-nosed hockey and keeping our net safe. Especially with all of the criticism by some fans concerning the Sharks’ lack of defensive prowess, the Sharks have since demonstrated to have some of the league’s best defensive playing in recent times. Additional assist to the Sharks management team for picking up defenseman Ian White, who had previously been playing with the Carolina Hurricanes.

Catch the Sharks TOMORROW night as they take on the Pittsburgh Penguins in Pittsburgh’s Consol Energy Center! This will be the Sharks’ second game out of their current three game road trip.

Sharks End Road Trip With Dramatic OT Win

The San Jose Sharks end their road trip in Nashville, defeating the Nashville Predators with a score of 2-1, in overtime. Despite some initial troubles against a powerful Predators team, the Sharks ended the game with a Patrick Marleau breakaway goal.

After the San Jose Sharks’ loss to the Florida Panthers on Sunday night, their second regulation loss in a row, the team knew their Tuesday night game against the Nashville Predators would be a vital one. Even Logan Couture and Devin Setoguchi expressed the same message to their fans on their Twitter accounts. Couture wrote that Tuesday night’s game against the Predators would be the “biggest game of the year” since the Sharks “need the points badly right now”. Before the game, the Sharks sat in seventh place in a very close Western Conference playoff race.

Despite what was at stake at the game’s beginning, the Sharks executed a very poor performance during the first period, failing to convert for two power plays (including a thirty second five on three), and allowing the Predators’ Cody Franson to sneak a puck past Sharks goaltender Antti Niemi during their only power play to make the score 0-1 Predators by the end of the first period.

By the time the second period began, the Sharks displayed signs of increased vitality, keeping control of the puck and putting more pressure on the Predators’ defensive line. The Predators also put up a tough front, although it was Sharks forward Devin Setoguchi with his amazing wrist shot that ended the Predators’ lead, putting the score at a 1-1 tie. Setoguchi’s shot was a certified snipe, barely beating the Predators’ Pekka Rinne, top shelf in the net. (Setoguchi went on to put a an unbelievable ten total shots on net.)

Certainly, the Predators were ready for the Sharks, although as the game continued to the third period, the Sharks gained the edge with significantly more puck control, peppering the standout Rinne with many shots on net. There was no scoring in the third period, mostly due to the netminders on both sides: Rinne of the Predators and Niemi of the Sharks. At the end of the third, the shots were 45-31 in the Sharks’ favor.

From the get-go of the overtime period until the very end, the Sharks completely dominated puck control, opportunities, shots on net (all five of them), and takeaways. Although Predators netminder Pekka Rinne kept his team alive for the last part of the game, he would eventually fold as a Patrick Marleau breakaway put him in a vulnerable position, with Marleau scoring through Rinne’s five hole to win the game.

Although Marleau, Niemi, and Setoguchi were undoubtedly the three heroes of the game, honorable mention goes to a great number of players on the team who may or may not have made it on the scoresheet:

- Defenseman Kent Huskins notched two assists and was largely responsible for moving the puck to Patrick Marleau for his breakaway (and overtime game winning goal).
- Joe Pavelski displayed excellent back checking and puck control, even putting a respectable seven shots on net.
- Logan Couture shone as well, putting four shots on net and creating several scoring opportunities.
- Niclas Wallin held his point phenomenally, sometimes pinching in, Boyle-esque, and putting the puck on net.
- Captain Joe Thornton contributed to the dominant puck control late in the second and the third and overtime periods.
- Douglas Murray saved goals by converting the puck, blocking several critical Predator shots (that would have been goals), and breaking out the puck very well from the defensive zone.

The Sharks end their road trip with a respectable five wins, two losses, as they head back to San Jose, ready to feel the support of the Shark Tank, while they face off in a rematch against the Washington Capitals on Thursday night.

Sharks Fall to Devils, Win Streak Snapped At Five

The San Jose Sharks continued their lengthy road trip in Newark, New Jersey, where they faced off against the New Jersey Devils, a team that endured many early season woes, but have since compiled an impressive 11-1-2 record over the last fourteen games. The Devils’ effort still placed them near the bottom of the Eastern Conference, still making it nothing short of a miracle to place them in a comfortable playoff position. The spread between the Devils and the Hurricanes, occupants of the eighth place position in the Eastern Conference, still remained in double digits.

For the Devils, in the place of their injured goaltender Martin Brodeur, was Johan Hedberg, and still noticeably missing from the lineup was forward Zach Parise, out with a knee injury for approximately another month. As for the Sharks, the roster remained unchanged since their last game against the Colombus Blue Jackets.

Although both teams stayed off the scoresheet in both goals and penalties for the first period, the Sharks outshot the Devils 12-2. As far as puck control, the Sharks dominated, effectively shutting down all of the Devils’ offensive threats. Fortunately for the Devils, Hedberg stood very tall in net, preventing large rebounds, and cutting off the shot angles for the Sharks’ opportunities.

The second period, although still remaining scoreless, proved to be a much more exciting hockey game. Although the Sharks again had more shots on net, at a 12-9 advantage (bringing the shot total to 24-11), each team executed crafty zone entries and net crashes, almost scoring. Had it not been for the stand up plays from the two netminders, the Devils’ Johan Hedberg and the Sharks’ Antti Niemi, the score would not have been 0-0 after the second period. Both teams’ defensemen also stepped up, in particular the Sharks’ Douglas Murray, who placed a nice highlight reel worthy hit on the Devils’ Tim Sestito. Nearing the end of the second period, the Devils’ Brian Rolston interfered the Sharks’ Devin Setoguchi from back checking, sending him to the box for two minutes.

The Sharks began the third period with a 43 second power play, although they failed to score. Just over six minutes in, Patrick Marleau positioned himself well in front of the net and scored his 21st of the year, finally breaking the 0-0 tie and giving the Sharks the one goal advantage. Not long afterward, the Sharks gained another power play, although it was short-lived as just over twenty seconds later, Joe Thornton received a hooking penalty call, evening the players on the ice. Forty seconds later, Logan Couture managed to get a tripping call in front of Niemi, giving the Devils the one-man advantage.

It did not take long for the Devils to capitalize on their 4 on 3 advantage. Forward Ilya Kovalchuk set teammate Brian Rolston up for a nice one-timer shot in the slot, and it was enough to beat Niemi, bringing the score to 1-1. The score remained 1-1 until just over four minutes left, when Devils forward Ilya Kovalchuk took charge of a Devils faceoff win and snapped a wrist shot through Niemi’s five hole to increase the lead to 1-2. Kovalchuk’s shot barely squeezed by an unscreened Niemi, who up until that point, had been playing a solid game.

Although the Sharks made a valiant effort to come back into the game, a Torrey Mitchell high-sticking call that qualified for the four minute double minor status with less than three minutes in the game proved to be the nail in the coffin, as the Sharks failed to equalize, leaving the final score 1-2 Devils.

The Sharks may have lost the game, however it felt great to, in a way, dispel the many inflammatory remarks from Sharks critics and fans alike criticizing the Sharks’ defensive lines. Based on their play the last several games, the Sharks defensive lines have played phenomenally, not allowing opposing team forwards to get a clear shot on net, keeping Niemi from getting screened, and carefully pinching in to assist the forwards in the offensive zone.

Puck control had been firmly in the Sharks’ favor, however without quality shots on net, only one of their 32 shots was enough to beat Hedberg. With quality time spent on improving the Sharks’ offense, their threat to other teams would only increase.

Catch the Sharks on Sunday the 13th as they take on the Florida Panthers at 2:00pm Pacific.

Sharks Continue Winning Streak After Hockey Night In Columbus

For their fourth game of a seven-game road trip, the San Jose Sharks traveled to Columbus, Ohio for their second game in two nights after a dramatic 2-0 win over the talented Washington Capitals team to face the Columbus Blue Jackets. While the Sharks currently have a solid place in the Western Conference playoff standings, the Blue Jackets had much to fight for, giving them more of an incentive to earn a two-point win against the Sharks.

Determined to maintain their fiery winning streak and perhaps add another shutout in their favor, the Sharks entered the first period playing fast-paced hockey, although the Blue Jackets proved to be a more dominant force. Unleashing over twice the number of shots on net as the Sharks and two power play goals by the end of the first period (in contrast to the Sharks remaining scoreless), it was evident the Sharks would have to surmount a surging comeback to get back into the game.

Rejuvenated and determined to come back after the disappointing first period, the Sharks opened up with a fiery offense, demonstrating a clear dominance, maintaining much better puck control, winning corner battles, and setting up teammates for scoring. Blue Jackets’ netminder Chris Mason stayed strong through all of the shots, including a back door setup to Dany Heatley. Still even strength, Sharks defenseman Kent Huskins nonchalantly let go a wrist shot at the net, and with careful screening by Heatley, the puck rolled into the back of the net, granting him his first goal of the year.

A beautiful clear by the Sharks in the middle of the second period gave Joe Thornton a breakaway, but the quick Mason quickly put him down. After the stoppage in play, a retaliation penalty on Sharks forward Devin Setoguchi by Blue Jackets forward Antoine Vermette gave the Sharks another power play. Although the Sharks managed to hold on to the puck for the entirety of the power play, Mason managed to stay strong in net, keeping all shots out. The Blue Jackets, up until that point, had kept the Sharks scoreless in three power plays, due to the play by Mason in net.

Mason, however, would not be entirely impenetrable, especially with the Sharks’ powerful onslaught of offense that emerged from the beginning of the second period. Sharks’ forward Kyle Wellwood, a new acquisition from January (along with Ben Eager), buried the puck late in the second to bring the score even at 2-2. Wellwood, a hard-working forward with a playing style similar to Sharks’ fan favorite Scott Nichol, had worked tremendously hard all period, giving his goal that much more of an accomplishment.

The score remained 2-2 through the end of the second period, with the Sharks leading in shots on net 26-25.

The third period emerged with solid play by both teams, with the Sharks at a slight edge on puck control, although the Blue Jackets had more shots on net. Adding on to the Sharks’ puck control, Sharks’ forward Devin Setoguchi had a couple great chances, although it was Patrick Marleau’s wonderfully executed shot from the left side of goaltender Chris Mason that gave the Sharks their 3-2 lead, which would end up being the game winning goal.

The Sharks have thus far won all four of their road games, extending their winning streak to five, and the team travels to Newark, New Jersey tonight to prepare for their Friday evening game against the New Jersey Devils.

Honorable mention to Antti Niemi, the well-deserved first star of the game, who definitely "stood on his head" for the full sixty minutes. In addition, would like to mention Niclas Wallin, who displayed some impressive offensive skills when driving the puck to the net, almost scoring.

Sharks Top Capitals In Fierce D.C. Battle

With three periods of fierce hockey coming to a close, the San Jose Sharks emerged victorious with a score of 2-0. Logan Couture scored again with his 24th of the season, and Sharks netminder Antti Niemi earned his second shutout in a row (after the Sharks’ 2-0 win in Boston last Saturday).

Coming into the game, fans and players alike knew this would be a hard-fought game, as the statistics showed the San Jose Sharks and the Washington Capitals almost dead even in each of their respective conference standings. Both the Sharks and Capitals are each well known for their offensive prowess, and facing each other would prove to be a significant test for each of the teams’ defensive lines.

The Capitals started their lineup with the young Michal Neuvirth in net and played without their star defender, Mike Green, after he had been hit to the side of the face with a wayward puck from a Brooks Orpik shot from their game against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The first two periods of the game, based on the scoresheet, were fairly uneventful. By the time the second period was over, the two teams remained scoreless, with only two minor penalties in the contest up to that point. As the scoreless streak continued, both teams played defensively well, until rookie Logan Couture broke the tie with eight minutes left in the third after receiving a beautiful board pass from Ben Eager, gently shooting the puck through Capitals netminder Neuvirth’s five hole. Only two short minutes later, defender Dan Boyle pinched in to one time a Heatley pass over Neuvirth’s shoulder to increase the score to 2-0.

From Boyle’s goal until the end of the game, the Capitals emerged with a strong offensive push, even pulling Neuvirth with two minutes to go while on a power play, giving the Capitals a 6-4 advantage. With the advantage, the Capitals failed to capitalize, even with powerful sniper Alex Ovechkin sending quick shots to the net, only coming short to Niemi’s quickness. The Capitals had many close opportunities, giving the local Caps fans the hope they would come back.

Both goaltenders were the highlight of the game, with Niemi making unbelievable kick saves and absorbing rebounds and Neuvirth making similarly wonderful saves. Although Niemi ended with a well-deserved shutout, Neuvirth still emerged with a respectable .944 save percentage.

Despite the outcome, the Sharks face the Capitals again next Thursday, the 17th, at the Shark Tank for a rematch. (As both a Sharks and Ovechkin fan, I will definitely be there.)

Catch the Sharks tomorrow at 4pm as they face the Columbus Blue Jackets, who themselves just came off of a victorious 4-1 game versus the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Niemi Shuts Out Bruins In Sharks' 2-0 Victory

The San Jose Sharks extend their current road victory to 2-0 with a victory over the strong Boston Bruins with a score of 2-0. Logan Couture's power play goal just seven and a half minutes into the first period was all the team needed to win, especially with the strong, stepped up defensive play that allowed goaltender Antti Niemi to earn his third shutout of the season. Forward Devin Setoguchi increased the score to 2-0 with three seconds left in the game on an open net, as the Bruins pulled their goaltender Tim Thomas in an attempt to tie the game late in the third. Although the Sharks' 18 total shots on net were the lowest of the season, it was enough to earn their much-deserved two points.

The Sharks' defense was continually impressive all game, defending the net and keeping the Bruins scoreless for their four power plays. Even during the Bruins' fourth power play in the third period from a Joe Thornton tripping call, the Bruins failed to register a single shot on net for the entire two minutes. It became clear, to those of us either watching the game on television or listening to the game on the radio, that the fans in Boston's TD Garden were disappointed and began booing their team in disgust.

Although the Bruins played a decent game, almost scoring from a Milan Lucic shot that hit the post, and their many almost-successful attempts to capitalize on the several large rebounds given by Niemi, the Sharks' defense today was too strong. In addition, the Bruins failed to win the puck battles in the corners (something the Sharks have been great at all season, with the likes of Ryane Clowe and Scott Nichol), giving the Sharks more control over the puck's movement.

Couture's goal (after missing two straight games from the flu) puts his tally to 23, giving him a comfortable lead thus far in the rookie goal scoring race (five ahead of the Hurricanes' Jeff Skinner).

With the win, the Sharks are now tied with the Anaheim Ducks in the Western Conference standings at 62 points (taking up the 4th and 5th place spots), although the Ducks have played in one more game.

The Sharks continue their road trip next Tuesday (the 8th) against a powerful Washington Capitals team in D.C.

Sharks Defeat Rival Ducks In Fierce Battle

The San Jose Sharks may have played a phenomenal game against the Phoenix Coyotes, but already less than a day later, they suited up to battle the Anaheim Ducks in their very own Honda Center.

With a big win, the Sharks emerged triumphant in a fierce battle with the Ducks in Anaheim. After the first puck drop, it did not take long for the Sharks to strike first, with Dany Heatley scoring his 19th goal of the season just fourteen seconds into the first period. Only seven short minutes later, Ben Eager ripped a beautiful top right corner wrist shot to score his first goal as a Shark on Anaheim's netminder Jonas Hiller. Eager's shot almost made it seem like he was recruited to the Sharks for his sniping ability. Following Eager's goal, Jason Demers fired the puck into the net from the blue line, increasing the Sharks lead to 3-0. Only half of the first period had elapsed, and Hiller already was pulled from his post in the net. Definitely a bad night for the goaltender who had enjoyed an NHL-best 25 wins (tied with Tim Thomas of the Boston Bruins). This lead continued to the end of the first period.

As all Sharks fans understand from yesterday's match, a three-goal lead never guarantees a winning effort, especially with forty minutes of regulation time left in the game, and with the fast paced anything-can-happen speed of professional ice hockey.

Anaheim began to chip in their goals early in the second period, with the Ducks' Joffrey Lupul decreasing the Sharks' lead to 3-1. Up until the Ducks' even strength goal, the Sharks had been able to kill two of what would come to be many penalties against them. Ryane Clowe increased the Sharks' lead back to three goals with a nice power play opportunity, although the Ducks' Cam Fowler answered right back with a power play goal, as he had been in a fortunate position to the right side of Niemi when the puck bounced over to his stick. The second period ended with a 4-2 Sharks edge.

The Ducks again contributed to their late surge early in the third period, increasing the score to 4-3, which then turned the game into a highly defensive battle, as the Sharks kept their defenseman strong in front of the net and the forwards not taking any risky chances to enter the offensive zone. After Ben Eager's Delay of Game penalty by shooting the puck over the glass, the Ducks emerged with a powerful offensive strategy, effectively keeping the puck in the Sharks' zone and unleashing a barrage of shots on Antti Niemi, who fortunately played very well to keep the shots out.

By the end of the third period, the Sharks managed to hold their 4-3 lead, beating the Ducks at their home and placing them in a more comfortable playoff position. Although the standings still remain the same, a continued momentum by the Sharks can help solidify their position in the Western Conference standings with more big wins like the last two games.

Although it seemed the Sharks would break down and succumb to the large Ducks offensive effort near the end of the third period, the team earned their two points and overall played a solid game, playing well to kill the many penalties they had in the Ducks' favor.

Honorable mention goes to Ryane Clowe, who not only scored the game winning goal, but played the corners very effectively, setting up his linemates with great opportunities to score.

The Sharks continue their road trip against the Boston Bruins on Saturday, February 5th in Boston.

Sharks Stage Legendary Comeback, Assist to the Shark Tank

The second period nears its end, and the San Jose Sharks trail the Phoenix Coyotes 0-3. As the Sharks fans make their objections known, the Sharks struggle to come together, being thoroughly dominated by the Coyotes team in every category: goals, shots, and puck control. In frustration, Coach Todd McLellan pulls the goaltender, Antti Niemi, to give backup Alex Stalock (who had just been recalled from the Worcester Sharks farm team) an opportunity to play.

It clearly does not appear to be a favorable day for the Sharks.

With just under a minute left in the second period, Phoenix takes a penalty, and the Sharks quickly take control of the power play and gain the Coyotes’ zone. Ten seconds left, nine seconds left, eight seconds left…the time continues to tick away as the Sharks try to score…seven seconds…then GOAL! The loud, triumphant goal horn echoes through the Tank, the fans growing with increasing enthusiasm. Joe Pavelski has scored with seven seconds to go!

If there is any team that feeds on emotion, it is the San Jose Sharks. As the Shark Tank is infamous among visiting NHL teams, Sharks fans are the fuel to the Sharks’ flame, and responsible for their historically dominant home game campaign. Although Sharks fans are extremely supportive of their home team, they are also not afraid to show their disapproval when their team plays below expectations, whether it is a visible lack of effort or failure to convert power play opportunities into goals. This 2010-2011 season has had its fair share of ups and downs, with the current standings as proof, as the Sharks are currently tied for seventh place in the Western Conference standings with the Chicago Blackhawks, effectively making them tied for last place for teams that qualify for playoffs.

The Pavelski goal that brought the Sharks to a 1-3 game gave the fans hope, perhaps a spark that would perhaps give the struggling team a chance. After all, a twenty minute third period is plenty of time for the Sharks to regroup and stage a comeback.

And come back the Sharks do.

Just over a minute into the third period, Joe Pavelski scores again from the same spot (and into the same upper left corner) to make the score 2-3. Only a few minutes later, newcomer Kyle Wellwood crashes the net to beautifully tip in a Ben Eager rebound, scoring his first goal as a Shark, bringing the score to a 3-3 tie.

The fans become ecstatic. (Perhaps that is what drove the team to play better.) Suddenly, the defense comes together and the offense becomes more aggressive. Star player Patrick Marleau, who had just been recognized before the game for his 1,000th game with the Sharks (Congratulations, Patty!), charges the Coyotes defense while on a penalty kill for a very questionable call against Ben Eager to earn a breakaway, where he promptly scores a SHORTHANDED goal.

With the 4-3 lead, the Sharks increase their defensive potency, preventing the Coyotes from scoring for the rest of the game. Joe Thornton manages to score with ten seconds left on an empty net from a last resort opportunity for the Coyotes to tie the game.

With the final score of 5-3, the Sharks execute a fantastic win, with their five unanswered goals becoming one of their greatest comebacks. (Assist goes to the Shark Tank for their exuberant support.)

With some final thoughts about the game, I commend the Sharks with some effective net crashing during the third period, which I believe is the reason for their scoring. My greatest criticism for the Sharks’ playing style is they typically fail to have players open for the “back door” goals. I tend to watch the Vancouver Canucks (since they execute it best), since they can frequently manage to get one of their players open in front of the net, usually from a well-placed pick in front of the net to draw an opposing team defenseman, leaving another player wide open for a shot. Once the Sharks can set up their offensive zone shot positioning, they will be an awfully difficult team to beat.

Wishlist Wednesday: For the Sharks to Get Back in the Top 16!

SJDA: Discounted Sharks Tickets!

Downtowner Online – Special Edition A service of the San Jose Downtown Association
An exclusive offer from our friends at the San Jose Sharks:
It’s time to FEEL THE TEAL.  Time to experience the one-of-a-kind, electrifying atmosphere that is San Jose Sharks Hockey.  The Sharks are back and are ready for another deep run into the playoffs!

We can help you FEEL THE TEAL and see new captain Joe Thornton and recent arrival Antti Niemi with this special San Jose Downtown Association offer.

Tuesday, October 19 vs. the Carolina Hurricanes
$60* Lower Bowl Tickets (normally priced at $83* – a discount of almost 30%)
$40* Sideline Upper Bowl Tickets (normally priced at $58* – a discount of over 30%)
*Price does not include service fees or shipping. 
For tickets, click the following link and in the “Promotions and Special Offers” box use the following password: SJDA.  Be sure to select the $83 or $58 price level.  The discount will be reflected once you select the number of seats and price level you want.

http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1C00451F9C294068?artistid=806018&majorcatid=10004&minorcatid=9 <http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1C00451F9C294068?artistid=806018&majorcatid=10004&minorcatid=9> 
Enjoy the game!
Rick Jensen

San Jose Sharks: Draft and Free Agency Update

What an exciting last couple of weeks this has been! First began the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, where exciting young prospects were selected, and then began the opportunity to sign players with a "free agency" status. While the Sharks still have some decisions to make concerning their 2010-2011 team, as general manager Doug Wilson aims to create a roster rife with playoff success.

Perhaps the largest piece of news, aside from the last update where Evgeni Nabokov's departure and Patrick Marleau/Joe Pavelski's re-signing were announced, the Sharks have signed a new goaltender: Antero Niittymaki of Finland - a two-year contract for $2 million per year. Previously playing for both the Philadelphia Flyers and the Tampa Bay Lightning, he is mostly noted for leading Team Finland to the silver medal during the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy (where he was also voted the tournament MVP). Nabokov, meanwhile, has returned to the KHL (Kontinental Hockey League, in Russia), where he, today, signed a four year contract with the SKA St. Petersburg team. Best of luck to him there!

As far as the draft picks from the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, here are the Sharks' selections (hat tip to sharkspage.com for the names and stats):

1st round (28th overall) – Charlie Coyle
Position: RW/C
Birthplace: Boston, MA
Size: 6-foot-2, 202-pounds
Shoots: Right

3rd round (88th overall) – Max Gaede
Position: RW
Birthplace: Maryland, MN
Size: 6-foot-2, 187-pounds
Shoots: Right

5th round (127th overall) – Cody Ferriero
Position: C
Birthplace: Boston, MA
Size: 5-foot-11, 190-pounds
Shoots: Right

5th round (129th overall) – Freddie Hamilton
Position: C
Birthplace: Toronto, ON
Size: 6-foot-1, 187-pounds
Shoots: Right

5th round (136th overall) – Isaac MacLeod
Position: D
Birthplace: Nelson, BC
Size: 6-foot-4, 205-pounds
Shoots: Left

6th round (163rd overall) – Konrad Abeltshauser
Position: D
Birthplace: Bad Tolz, Germany
Size: 6-foot-5, 190-pounds
Shoots: Left

7th round (188th overall) – Lee Moffie
Position: D
Birthplace: Wallingford, CT
Size: 6-foot-1, 200-pounds
Shoots: Left

7th round (200th overall) – Chris Crane
Position: RW
Birthplace: Virginia Beach, VA
Size: 6-foot-0, 189-pounds
Shoots: Right

Here's hoping the Sharks can utilize both their veterans and new talent this upcoming year. Although I am confident we can make playoffs again, we need to win, plain and simple.

Hopefully the Sharks can make a couple more good moves before the free agency and trading period ends. Currently, there are quite a bit of high-valued trades/signings going on, although mostly rumored. The hottest topics right now in the NHL concerning free agents are Mike Modano (the greatest American player ever, now dropped by the Stars and very likely to sign with the Red Wings), Ilya Kovalchuk (2001 first pick and solid player having issues choosing between the Devils and the Kings; that and his high salary demand), and for San Jose fans, Owen Nolan (arguably one of the best Sharks players who is rumored, albeit somewhat unlikely, to come back to play at the Tank).

Here is to the upcoming season!

Sharks Re-Sign Marleau and Pavs

Many Sharks fans rejoiced yesterday as news surfaced of the re-signing of the Sharks' playoff heroes: Joe "Pavs" Pavelski and Patrick Marleau. This is great news as both players are integral pieces to the team's success.

Not surprisngly, fans grew nervous of the futures for some of the fan favorites, especially due to the decision to not re-sign Evgeni Nabokov. In addition, the NHL had some interesting trades, notably the Chicago Blackhawks' decision to deal playoff hero Dustin Byfuglien to the Atlanta Thrashers and the Montreal Canadiens' decision to deal their "brick wall" goaltender Jaroslav Halak (who had led the team past two powerhouses: Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals and Malkin and the Pittsburgh Penguins) to the St.Louis Blues. These decisions alone make the prospect of trading big names something less of a surprise. Fortunately, two team favorites re-signed to stay with Silicon Valley's favorite and most popular sports team.

Pavelski signed a four year, $16 million contract to stay with the Sharks. With his strong post-season performance, Pavelski is just too valuable of a player to dish out, and the Sharks know it. Additionally, given the Sharks have consistently made playoffs each year, only to eventually lose, the team's management understands they cannot be pulling any punches with stacking their team. Strong playoff performers are a must. Although Pavelski managed a respectable 51 points during the regular season, he flourished in the post season with an amazing 17 points in 15 games, including 9 goals - a statistic he led the NHL in for a period of time.

As important as it may be to have strong regular season performers to qualify for playoffs, it does not get you the Stanley Cup.

This is why it was also smart to re-sign Patrick Marleau. Marleau has spent his entire NHL career with the Sharks, after being drafted second overall in the 1997 NHL Entry Draft (coincidentally behind the first pick Joe Thornton, who went to the Boston Bruins for his first eight seasons before coming to the Sharks). Although Marleau got off to a slow start in the 2010 playoffs, he quickly proved critics wrong by scoring in the most critical of times. Notably, his goal against the Detroit Red Wings in Game Five at the HP Pavilion was critical in vaulting the Sharks past the Red Wings into the next stage of the playoffs.

As an opinionated San Jose Sharks hockey fan (and occasional hockey player), I have confidence the Sharks will be able to build a lethal squad this year. Although the choice not to re-sign Nabokov was an emotional one for me, I am sure a lot went into the decision and I wish him the very best. My confidence for this year, however, was solidified when I agreed to another year of season tickets.

Keep your eye out on this blog for more updates. The 2010 NHL Entry Draft takes place in Los Angeles this weekend, so keep your eye out for new young prospects.

Here's to the next successful year!

The San Jose Sharks - An Update

Now that the playoffs are over, I need to discard any animosity I have for the Chicago Blackhawks and congratulate them on their Stanley Cup win. It was deserved, they played very well, and not to mention, up until their win, the Blackhawks had the longest Cup drought out of any active NHL team - 49 years.

Now the 2009-2010 season is over, preparations for next season begin. Before I get into the current details, I would first like to congratulate the San Jose Sharks on their twentieth anniversary! For longtime Sharks fans like myself, I am sure we all remember those days of trekking all the way to the Daly City's Cow Palace to catch the first two seasons of hockey while the then-named San Jose Arena was being built. Silicon Valley hockey fans owe it to the Sharks for creating one of the country's most loyal and exciting sports franchises, and to further illustrate my point, San Jose can now be accurately called a hockey-loving "fin"atical home base! Since the Sharks came into prominence, new teams and even new ice rinks have been springing up all over the Silicon Valley and the Bay Area. Ice hockey went from unusual to mainstream.

Although the Cup has yet to come to San Jose, the team's promising results, stemming from many consecutive playoff entrances in the top-seeded position and the willingness to form a strong group of players, make that current dream a very possible reality in the near future. General Manager Doug Wilson, himself an ex-Shark (also the franchise's first Captain) with a very respectable NHL career, has been making great decisions, and as long as he remains at the helm, fans can expect great things out of the Sharks.

This, of course, brings us to some vital updates made between the playoffs and today. Despite the 2010 NHL Entry Draft taking place this weekend, where the Sharks have the 28th pick in the first round, there were a couple of big decisions that took place, as many of you fans know, with (expected) mixed emotions.

The first of which, and to me the most significant (and emotional), was the Sharks' decision not to re-sign star goaltender Evgeni "John" or "Zhenia" Nabokov, who as of now is an unrestricted free agent. Nabokov was originally picked up by the Sharks (the only NHL team he has played for) in the 1994 draft, although he never played until 2000, when he eventually replaced Steve Shields as the main goaltender of the team. As the starting goaltender, Nabokov had a very impressive campaign, putting up high save percentages and wins, helping lead the Sharks to consecutive playoffs.

Although it is hard to justify the means for trading Nabokov, there is a lot of talk about the salary cap hindering the ability to pay him, one of the NHL's best netminders. While some critics peg his inability to play in clutch situations, namely the playoffs, most of this criticism comes from frustrated fans who fail to recognize the great many fantastic saves he does make. Overall, however, there is a general outcry from loyal Sharks fans, the great majority of which claim he will "truly be missed." That is true. We will all miss you, Nabby!

The second piece of news came a couple weeks ago when Sharks' team captain and defenseman Rob Blake announced his retirement from hockey. Blake is mainly noted for his leadership both on and off the ice and his long campaign as captain of the Los Angeles Kings and his Stanley Cup win in 2001 with the Colorado Avalanche. He had a stellar NHL career, complete with multiple All-Star appearances, selection for the NHL First All-Star Team (in 1998), and winner of the prestigious defenseman award, the James Norris Trophy, also in 1998.

Thank you, Mr.Blake, for making your last great season in San Jose. We are honored to have had you here!

As new decisions and updates take place, I will try to keep them updated here. Thank you to all of you loyal fans who have supported and will continue to support your San Jose Sharks!

San Jose Sharks: A Short Reflection of the 2010 Season.

As an avid Sharks fan, it is never easy to see their elimination from the Stanley Cup Playoffs, especially since they have shown terrific promise this year. Despite the less-than-desired exit, one cannot say the Sharks “performed badly post-season as usual” or “failed to perform” this year. The team had a fantastic year, finishing first in the Western Conference (second overall in the NHL), and advancing to the Conference Finals of the playoffs, falling short only to another incredibly strong team; one that had been seeded behind the Sharks by only one point. In the process, fans saw some huge wins, and had witnessed some very talented and contributive individuals. We have watched players such as defenseman Dan Boyle, arguably the best offensive defenseman to play today, new star Joe Pavelski, the Sharks’ current top clutch player, and the usual suspects Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau, and Dany Heatley lighting up and entertaining the home crowd. Say what you want about Dany Heatley, but his regular season performance was what helped push the Sharks to their top seed in the first place. With some well-needed rest and off-season training, there is no doubt the Sharks will return to the next season ready to go.

In addition, there was veteran captain Rob Blake, rock solid forward Ryane Clowe, star rookie Logan Couture, faceoff and forechecking king Manny Malhotra, goal clincher Devin Setoguchi, and workaholic Scott Nichol – all with amazing seasons. Never have I been so amped to watch the Sharks play hockey, because this year, they were really good.

As many of you know, the Sharks have typically fared well in the regular season the past few years. Now, it is up to the team to find out how to properly play in clutch situations. Besides the obvious conclusion about needing the “want” and the “hunger” to win, here are a few observations I have made concerning the Sharks that could help them in future playoff seasons:

1) The Sharks need more snipers. A sniper is a player that can, quite literally, score at will if they are given the chance to have a decent shot. They have the ability to shoot fast and hard and and put the puck in just about any corner they wish. Unfortunately, the Sharks do not have a player that (specifically) fits this category, although there are a lot of good shooters on the team. Sharks’ goals are mainly scored from wonderful puck handling plays, tip-ins, and close range shots. If the Sharks can get at least one, possibly two players in this category, they can put together lethal scoring lines. It is evident the Sharks lack snipers mainly due to their typical dominance of the “shots on goal” counter but not necessarily the scoreboard.

2) The Sharks need to improve some aspects of their defensive game. This is not to take a jab at the skill level of the Sharks’ current defensive lines. (As a defenseman myself, I idolize players like Dan Boyle.) However, it is important to improve where the Sharks failed to perform well. In particular, and especially when watching other teams with terrific defensive configurations, the Sharks must do a better job of choking up the slot and covering shooters. Most of the goals scored against the Sharks were from lines rushing into the zone, passing the puck in ways to open up shooters, where one would be able to rip a shot either from the high slot or in another lethal shooting zone. I found that the Habs (Montreal Canadiens) did this very well after watching their games so far this series. Being able to play well in this manner will diminish the amount of shots on the Sharks net.

3) The Sharks need more big hitters (enforcers, if you will). Although the Sharks have had some in the past, like current New York Rangers forward Jody Shelley, there is currently no dedicated enforcer, at least one that I know of. Enforcers need not essentially fight all the time, but be the ones to line up players of the opposing team to deliver hits. Players like Joe Thornton may be able to dish out some pretty massive hits, however he is primarily known for his ability to play as a power forward and set up some great plays. What the Sharks need is, more or less, a dedicated enforcer, sent out on the ice to rile the other team up. The Blackhawks, for instance, found their heavy enforcer in forward Ben Eager, who on many occasions would throw his massive frame around to knock some unsuspecting Sharks players off of the puck and on to the ice.

Although I am sure there are more subtle details on how the Sharks could have improved their game, these three stuck out huge. It is one thing to have some fantastic players, but it is another to have the complete package. Especially when faced against an incredibly fast Chicago Blackhawks team, having some players with specific roles are what are needed to have pure competition.

From the spectator’s standpoint, there may have been some players who did not perform up to expectations during the playoffs, however all can change next season. I have the confidence the Sharks will put together a massively powerful team this year to become a top contender for the next year’s Stanley Cup. Although the Sharks may have some work to do, it is up to you, the FANS, to continue your diehard support for your local team, and keep rocking the teal!

Remember, San Jose is not just home to Silicon Valley…it is also the Sharks Territory!

Thank you for all of your support this year! There is a reason opponents loathe playing games at the coveted HP Pavilion: it’s because of you, the fans, showing your support, and making it known that our team, the San Jose Sharks, are a force to be reckoned with!