Sharks 2021-22 Game 82 Recap: Kraken 3, Sharks 0 (4/29/22)

 The Sharks get shut out by the Seattle Kraken 3-0 in their final game of the 2021-22 season. 

Team Teal didn't have much going for them in their season finale. The main highlight for the Sharks was a nifty move by Thomas Bordeleau in the first period. Otherwise, it was all Seattle in this one. The first two goals by the Kraken were scored in the first period by Yanni Gourde and Adam Larsson respectively. The last Kraken goal came late in the third period on an empty-netter from Victor Rask. 

Kaapo Kahkonen was given the start in net in the Sharks' last game of the season, recording 28 saves in the Sharks' third-straight loss. 

The Sharks finished their 2021-22 campaign with a 32-37-13 record with 77 points, good for sixth in the Pacific Division and 22nd in the overall standings. Their final draft lottery odds sit at three percent in the Shane Wright sweepstakes after the Ducks lose to the Stars 4-2 to finish a point below the Sharks in the overall standings. 

Overall, despite the disappointing ending and dismal stretches of the season, this past season for the Sharks was still better than their previous two seasons, especially since goaltending improved significantly, the young players made strides, and Timo Meier and Tomas Hertl had all-star caliber performances. With that being said, changes need to be made to this team this offseason, and as long as those changes are made and they continue to improve, the future is bright for this Sharks team. 

It will be about four months before the Sharks hit the ice again. I will miss watching Sharks hockey, but at the same time, I am relieved that their season has come to a close with the way much of this season has gone for them. 

The Stanley Cup Playoffs begin next week, and despite the Sharks missing the playoffs for the third-consecutive season, I am excited for the playoffs to get underway. I plan to fill out two playoff brackets: one consisting of who I want to see win and advance, and one consisting of who I think will win and advance. Once those are filled out, I will present those in the coming days leading up to the start of this year's Stanley Cup Playoffs, so be on the lookout for those. 

In the meantime, thank you for following along all season long, and I'll be back next season with more postgame recaps covering what will hopefully be a much better Sharks team. 

Sources: NHL App, Multiple sources via Twitter

Sharks 2021-22 Game 81 Recap: Oilers 5, Sharks 4 (OT) (4/28/22)

 The Sharks fought hard until the very end, but couldn’t get the win as the Oilers prevail in overtime 5-4. 

Despite the less-than-ideal outcome, there were plenty of positive aspects of this game from the Sharks' perspective, especially the younger players banding together and further proving themselves for the future. The Sharks scored the first two goals early in the first period, both of which were by Noah Gregor. Sasha Chmelevski assisted on the first Gregor goal, while Thomas Bordeleau assisted on the other Gregor goal. 

The Oilers scored the next two goals via Ryan McLeod and Kailer Yamamoto in the second period to tie the game at two before Scott Reedy followed those up on the power play to get the Sharks back within one on his seventh goal of the season and at the NHL level. This one was redirected in, with Brent Burns and Logan Couture picking up assists. 

Derek Ryan scored the next goal for the Oilers in the third period to tie it at three, while Nick Bonino regained the lead for the Sharks from Logan Couture and Matt Nieto shortly after. About a minute later, Philip Broberg scored his first NHL goal to tie the game at four for the Oilers to force bonus hockey. Edmonton hadn't led the entire game until OT, when Zach Hyman would score the game-winner to win it for the Oilers. 

James Reimer was solid in net in this game despite not getting his 20th win of the season, recording 26 saves. 

In other news, the Golden Knights were officially eliminated from playoff contention for the first time in their franchise history with their third straight shootout loss, this time to the Blackhawks, and the Stars earning a point against the Coyotes. Thank goodness. Also, the Sharks displayed a hidden message on their jumbotron during their final home game this season on Tuesday, which read "Fans unite! Celebrate! Keep the hockey energy kicking! Now imbibe generously, honor the Sharks!" Based on the first letter of every word in this message, it was interpreted as "F*ck the Knights," which was hilarious, savage, and brilliant.

The Sharks wrap up their 2021-22 season tonight in Seattle against the Kraken tonight at 7 pm PT.

Sources: NBC Sports Bay Area/California, NHL App

Sharks 2021-22 Game 80 Recap: Ducks 5, Sharks 2 (4/26/22)

 The Sharks drop their home finale of the season to the Anaheim Ducks 5-2. 

Team Teal crapped the bed in their latest game compared to their previous few. They fell behind early, mounted a comeback late in the second period, but the next goal to tie or possibly lead was out of reach for them unfortunately. The Ducks struck first early in the first period via Trevor Zegras on the power play; luckily he didn't pull off the lacrosse goal this time. Troy Terry nearly scored another one for Anaheim, but it was overturned after the replay review determined that there was a distinct kicking motion on that particular play.

The Ducks extended their lead to 3-0 early in the middle frame with goals from Max Comtois and Sonny Milano. The Sharks' comeback began late in the second period with a goal by Brent Burns on the man advantage followed by Scott Reedy's sixth goal of the season and at the NHL level. Logan COuture, Thomas Bordeleau, Jaycob Megna, and Sasha Chmelevski each picked up assists on the Sharks' only two goals of the game. 

San Jose had opportunities to tie and go ahead early in the final frame but hit a few posts in the process. In addition, Jonah Gadjovich and Hunter Drew fought due to a hit laid on Noah Gregor by Drew. Later in the third, the Ducks capped this one off with a goal from Josh Mahura and an empty-netter from Zach Aston-Reese, taking the season series with the Sharks three games to one. 

Kaapo Kahkonen didn't have his best performance last night, recording 26 saves and giving up four goals in the loss. 

In other news, Rudolfs Balcers announced after the game that he will be competing for Team Latvia in the World Championships in Finland next month. Also, the Dallas Stars defeated the Vegas Golden Knights 3-2 in a shootout last night, putting the Knights on the brink of missing the playoffs once more. The great part now is that the only way the Golden Knights can make the playoffs this season is if they win out the rest of the season and the Stars lose the remainder of their regular season games. Considering this scenario and who each of these teams are facing in their last two regular season games, the odds of Vegas pushing through and extending their season are quite slim. The rest of the NHL and I are begging for this unlikely outcome to not occur, and I am very confident that things won't play out that way. Vegas missing the playoffs for the first time in their franchise history is necessary for the sanity of the NHL and to maintain parity throughout the league. 

As for this game, it wasn't how we wanted the last home game of the season to end, but we shouldn't be all that shocked that it ended this way with how this season has gone as a whole. The Sharks' next-to-last game of the season is Thursday in Edmonton against the Oilers at 6 pm PT. 

Sources: NBC Sports Bay Area/California, NHL App

Sharks 2021-22 Game 79 Recap: Sharks 5, Golden Knights 4 (SO) (4/24/22)

 The Sharks come from behind and get a huge win in the shootout over the Vegas Golden Knights 5-4 to snap their 11-game losing streak against the Knights. 

This game was an absolute thriller. In fact, this may possibly be the Sharks' best win of the season. It also brought back vibes from the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs first round series between these two teams. Most importantly, the Sharks played spoiler and put a thorn in the Golden Knights' playoff hopes this season. It was incredible, and the rest of the NHL had the Sharks' backs in this one. 

But first, I must begin with how this game began. The Sharks scored first around the midway point of the first period on Tomas Hertl's 30th goal of the season, getting helpers from Alexander Barabanov and Jaycob Megna. The Golden Knights went on to score the next three goals by Chandler Stephenson on the power play in the first period and by Max Pacioretty and William Carrier in the second period. The Sharks got back within one late in the second period on Nick Bonino's first goal of the game, with Jaycob Megna collecting his second assist of the game and Matt Nieto picking up the second assist on that goal. 

Vegas extended its lead back to two early in the third period via Nicolas Roy. At this point, it seemed as if the Sharks were bound to lose their 12th straight to Vegas and disappoint the entire NHL. However, the Sharks shocked everyone with their comeback efforts late in the third with Nick Bonino’s second goal of the game and Timo Meier’s 35th goal of the season at the last second of regulation to force overtime and a shootout. Logan Couture and Brent Burns assisted on the game-tying goal at the last second of regulation to extend this game. 

It now had to be decided in the skills competition, and Thomas Bordeleau scored the lone shootout goal with some nifty moves in only his fifth NHL game. This was also the first game-winner of his NHL career, even though he has yet to officially record his first NHL goal. 

Although he gave up four goals, James Reimer was clutch when he needed to be, making 42 saves in the Sharks' comeback win. 

On top of that, the Golden Knights could get eliminated from playoff contention on Tuesday if they lose to the Dallas Stars in regulation, which would mark the first time in their franchise history missing the playoffs. This would amazing and great for the NHL if all goes to plan. 

Back to the Sharks, coming off their third win in their past four games, this one has to feel great. They face the Anaheim Ducks in their last home game of the season on Tuesday at 7:30 pm PT. 

Sources: NBC Sports Bay Area/California, NHL App

Sharks 2021-22 Game 78 Recap: Sharks 4, Blackhawks 1 (4/23/22)

 The Sharks get back in the win column as they defeat the Chicago Blackhawks 4-1 during their Fan Appreciation Night. 

San Jose was able to find its offense along with great goaltending from Kaapo Kahkonen Saturday night. The Sharks scored first in the first period via Jasper Weatherby from Scott Reedy and Sasha Chmelevski. They extended their lead to two early in the second period via Tomas Hertl on a great setup from Timo Meier. Around the midway point of the second period, Timo Meier extended the Sharks' lead to three, with Alexander Barabanov collecting an assist on that third goal for Team Teal. The Blackhawks salvaged a goal in the later half of the second from Tyler Johnson to avoid getting shut out. 

The Sharks received some extra insurance in the third period with a goal from Nick Bonino on the power play, with assists from Brent Burns and Logan Couture. 

Kaapo Kahkonen was outstanding in net and earned his second win as a Shark, recording 27 saves in the process. 

Since it was Fan Appreciation Night at the Tank, the Sharks' Team End-of-Season Awards were announced. They are as follows: 

• Media Good Guy: James Reimer 
• Prospect of the Year: Brandon Coe 
• Rookie of the Year: Jonathan Dahlen 
• Player of the Year: Timo Meier 

It's great to see this Sharks team win again, even if it may potentially hurt their chances at a top draft pick this year. In addition, the Sharks won their season series over the Blackhawks, taking two of three games. Next up, the Sharks travel to Las Vegas to face the Golden Knights one last time this season in attempt to play spoiler to knock the Knights out of the playoff race, which will take place tonight at 7 pm PT. 

Sources: Sharks Audio Network, NHL App

Sharks 2021-22 Game 77 Recap: Blues 3, Sharks 1 (4/21/22)

 The Sharks were unable to get over the hump once again as they lose to the St. Louis Blues 3-1. 

The same theme in many of their previous games this season continues: able to keep pace with the other team, but can't seem to muster up enough offense to win. Noah Gregor scored the Sharks' first and only goal of the game early in the first period, with Rudolfs Balcers and Thomas Bordeleau picking up assists on that goal. The Blues answered back a few minutes later via Dakota Joshua to tie the game at one. 

The Blues went on to score the next two goals via Robert Thomas 31 seconds into the second period and an empty-netter from Pavel Buchnevich late in the third. 

James Reimer was one of the main factors keeping the Sharks in this game, recording 25 saves. 

In other news and on a more positive note, it was announced that the Sharks will open next season in Prague, Czech Republic for their first two games against the Nashville Predators as part of the NHL Global Series on October 7 and 8. Prague is also the hometown of Tomas Hertl. In addition, the Sharks will play an exhibition game in Berlin, Germany against Eisbaren Berlin on October 4. These will be part of the first of a series of NHL international games since 2019. 

San Jose has gone back to its losing ways, while St. Louis is currently on a 14-game point streak. Next up, the Sharks host the Chicago Blackhawks in their next-to-last home game of this season on Saturday at 5 pm PT. 

Sources: NBC Sports Bay Area/California, NHL App

Sharks 2021-22 Game 76 Recap: Sharks 3, Blue Jackets 2 (4/19/22)

 A three-goal first period propelled the Sharks to snap their ten-game losing skid, defeating the Columbus Blue Jackets 3-2. 

Despite being out of the playoff picture and the other issues that may be at hand, a win is a win, and that’s gotta feel good.There we’re also a few great notable aspects to this game that are worth discussing. First, Scott Reedy scored his first goal of the game early in the first period on his backhand on the power play. Noah Gregor and Logan Couture were credited with the assists on the first goal of this game. The Sharks’ next goal came about four minutes later via Rudolfs Balcers, with Thomas Bordeleau picking up his second NHL point and his second NHL assist on that play. Rounding out the three-goal first period for the Sharks was Scott Reedy’s second goal of the game, in which he batted out of mid air and into the net late in the first. Sasha Chmelevski was credited with the lone assist on the Sharks’ third goal and Scott Reedy’s second goal of the game. 

The second period was fairly quiet, but the Blue Jackets made things interesting in the third period. Columbus mounted a comeback effort in the final frame on two goals from Jack Roslovic, but the Sharks were able to hold on for their first win since March 26 against the Ducks. 

Not only did the Sharks’ ten-game losing streak end, Scott Reedy recorded his first multi-goal game of his career. Kaapo Kahkonen finally got his first win as a Shark, recording 22 saves. In addition, the Sharks got their 1,100th regular-season win in franchise history Tuesday night, a remarkable milestone. 

In other news, the Sharks recently signed goalie Strauss Mann to a one-year contract. Mann went undrafted and previously played for the Fargo Force of the USHL, the University of Michigan, and most recently Skelleftea AIK in the SHL. During his tenure with Skelleftea AIK, Mann had a 13-8-1 record with a 2.19 GAA, a .914 SV%, and three shutouts, which were all top-six in the SHL this past season respectively. He also represented Team USA during the 2022 Winter Olympics, posting a 1-1 record with a 1.85 GAA and a .945 SV%. In addition, I completed my second fantasy hockey season, finishing in seventh place. I had previously gone on a lengthy cold streak until last week, when that cold streak ended with a blowout win in the 7th place game to end the fantasy season on a high note.

Only six games remain in the Sharks’ 2021-22 campaign, so enjoy them while you can. The Sharks’ final homestand of the season continues Thursday, when they host the St. Louis Blues at 7:30 pm PT. 

Sources: NHL App, Sharks + SAP Center App 

Sharks 2021-22 Game 75 Recap: Wild 5, Sharks 4 (OT) (4/17/22)

 The Sharks may have arguably played their best game on their current road trip, but the Minnesota Wild hand the Sharks their tenth-straight loss 5-4 in overtime to close out the road trip. The Wild also clinch a playoff spot with their win on Sunday. 

Team Teal stayed in this one for the entire duration of the game, but they still couldn’t get over the hump. The Wild scored two quick goals in the first period from Dimitriy Kulikov and Jared Spurgeon, but the Sharks followed them up with one of their own from Rudolfs Balcers. In addition, Thomas Bordeleau recorded his first NHL point with an assist on the Sharks' first goal of the game, and Noah Gregor was credited with the secondary assist. 

Matt Nieto tied the game at two on a breakaway opportunity early in the second period, getting apples from Nick Bonino and Brent Burns. About five minutes later, Matt Boldy regained the lead for the Wild. Around the halfway point of the second frame, Noah Gregor found a large open hole on Marc-Andre Fleury and ties the game at three with helpers from Brent Burns and Rudolfs Balcers. 

The Sharks grabbed their first lead of the night early in the third period via a shorthanded goal by Nick Bonino, getting assists from Tomas Hertl and Nicolas Meloche. Later on in the third, the Wild tied the game at four to force overtime, with this goal being credited to Kevin Fiala. 

The Wild earned the second point in overtime and sealed the deal on Jared Spurgeon's second goal of the game. 

James Reimer returned to the crease against the Wild, recording 23 saves. 

Despite their tenth-consecutive defeat, one main highlight of this game was the NHL debut of Thomas Bordeleau, who was inserted as the third-line center. He is the 18th rookie to make his NHL debut this season for the Sharks and already made an immediate impact on this team. Kid's definitely got a bright future ahead of him. 

It may not seem like it at first, but at their current pace of play, the Sharks' current losing skid will end sooner than many people realize, but no one knows when exactly yet. Team Teal returns home for their next three games starting on Tuesday against the Columbus Blue Jackets at 7:30 pm PT. 

Sources: NBC Sports Bay Area/California, NHL App 

Sharks 2021-22 Game 74 Recap: Stars 2, Sharks 1 (4/16/22)

 The Sharks' losing skid extends to nine as they fall to the Dallas Stars 2-1. 

San Jose seems to be gradually improving during the progression of their current skid, but they can't seem to get over the hump. Team Teal was able to keep another playoff-bound team in the Stars in check, but the lack of goal support cost them. 

The Stars scored the first two goals, the first one by Tyler Seguin in the first period and the second one by Michael Raffl in the second period while shorthanded. The only goal scored by the Sharks in this game was by Timo Meier, who tallied his team-leading 33rd goal of the season. Ryan Merkley and Mario Ferraro were credited with the assists on the Sharks' only goal of the game. 

Kaapo Kahkonen had an excellent performance in net with 24 saves on 26 shots but was let down by the Sharks' lack of goal support. In addition, Alexander Barabanov and Erik Karlsson didn't play in this game as they were held out due to undisclosed injury reasons. 

On a more positive note, the Sharks signed forward Thomas Bordeleau to a three-year contract with an AAV of $916.7k. The 2020 second-round pick just completed a terrific season with the University of Michigan and recently played a few games with the Barracuda in the AHL. It has also been confirmed that Bordeleau will make his NHL debut tomorrow against the Wild in Minnesota. 

I and many others see the Sharks' current performance as a form of glorified tanking. They close out their current road trip tomorrow in the second game of a back-to-back set in St. Paul against the Minnesota Wild at 3 pm PT. 

Sources: NBC Sports Bay Area/California, NHL App 

Sharks 2021-22 Game 73 Recap: Blackhawks 5, Sharks 4 (SO) (4/14/22)

 The Sharks and Blackhawks were both on lengthy losing streaks, but the Blackhawks prevailed in the shootout 5-4. This extends the Sharks’ skid to eight games and officially eliminates them from playoff contention. 

Although the Sharks played fairly well, I had a bad feeling about this game from the get-go. The first goal of this game was scored by none other than Patrick Kane early in the first period. The Sharks answered back a few minutes later on Timo Meier's team-leading 32nd goal of the season, with assists from Tomas Hertl and Brent Burns. Following each team's first goal of the game was a fight that went down between Jeff Viel and Riley Stillman. 

The Blackhawks picked their scoring back up in the later half of the second period via Taylor Raddysh on the power play. The Sharks had an answer for that a few minutes later with Scott Reedy's third NHL goal, with Matt Nieto collecting his 100th NHL assist and Sasha Chmelevski picking up the secondary assist on that play. With less than two minutes remaining in the middle frame, Calvin de Haan regained the lead for the 'Hawks on a play primarily set up by Patrick Kane. There was also a wild sequence late in the second period in which the Blackhawks almost scored, but the magic and prowess of James Reimer was able to keep the puck from completely crossing the goal line. 

The Blackhawks extended their lead to two early in the third period via Dylan Strome. The Sharks then came back to tie the game late in the third to force OT and a shootout on the next two goals from Rudolfs Balcers and Jaycob Megna. Logan Couture, Erik Karlsson, and Timo Meier each collected assists on the last two goals, while Tomas Hertl recorded his second assist of the game. 

Alex DeBrincat scored the game-winner in the shootout on the Blackhawks' third attempt, while the Sharks went 0-for-3 in their shootout attempts last night. One other reason why it may have been fitting for the 'Hawks to win is that it was legendary Blackhawks play-by-play announcer Pat Foley's last game in the broadcast booth.

Despite the loss and giving up four goals, James Reimer was solid in net, recording 28 saves. 

In other news, the Sharks recently signed forward Max Veronneau to a one-year contract. He spent this season with Leksands IF of the Swedish Hockey League, where he led the SHL in goals with 34 and was second in the league in points with 60. Veronneau was also named the SHL's most valuable player this season. 

This is now the third-consecutive season that the Sharks have been eliminated from playoff contention. It was just a matter of time before this happened. For the remaining nine games of this season, it's just a matter of pride and the young players to prove themselves for next season. We at least know where they stand this season, but I already want the playoffs to begin. 

The Sharks travel to Dallas to face the Stars in their next game on Saturday at 5 pm PT. 

Sources: NBC Sports Bay Area/California, NHL App, Sharks + SAP Center App

Sharks 2021-22 Game 72 Recap: Predators 1, Sharks 0 (OT) (4/12/22)

 The Nashville Predators hand the Sharks their seventh-straight loss 1-0 in overtime. 

It was impressive that the Sharks kept this game scoreless until the last minute of overtime, especially against a tough Predators team in Nashville. Kaapo Kahkonen was the main factor keeping the game scoreless for that long for San Jose, recording a whopping 40 saves. 

Filip Forsberg almost scored one for the Preds in regulation, but it was overturned after the Sharks challenged it for offsides. 

There were a few scraps in this game, the first one between Jeff Viel and Mark Borowiecki early in the first period and the other one between Nicolas Meloche and Nick Cousins in the second period. In addition, Timo Meier and Tomas Hertl each took roughing penalties in the first period after sticking up for teammates that were victimized in prior incidents. 

Come overtime, with about a minute remaining in the OT period, Ryan Johansen scores the game-winner and only goal of the game. It first looked like Mattias Ekholm scored the game-winner, but the puck deflected off of Erik Karlsson's stick and into the net after it was shot by Johansen. 

On a more positive note, by earning a point in OT, the Sharks technically stay alive in the playoff hunt, but could get mathematically eliminated in the coming days if they lose or certain other teams win. 

In other news, the Sharks recently signed defenseman Nick Cicek to a two-year contract. This was his first season in the pros, recording five goals and 18 assists for 23 points in 48 games with the Barracuda of the AHL.

The reality of this season has fully settled in for me, and with ten games remaining in the season, I expect the Sharks to lose nearly every game from here on out for the rest of the season. Their current skid has taken a lot of the excitement out of this Sharks team for me, but I'll still follow and watch them whenever I can. At least this will increase the Sharks' chances of earning a top selection in this year's draft. San Jose's current road trip continues on Thursday in Chicago against the Blackhawks at 5:30 pm PT. 

Sources: NBC Sports Bay Area/California, NHL App

I Bought a CoolHockey NHL Adidas Jersey Mystery Box for the First Time

Ever since I first saw Neil of Post2Post Productions on YouTube open and promote CoolHockey NHL Jersey Mystery Boxes, I have always wanted to get my hands on one, primarily as an experiment. It has finally happened, and the one I ordered arrived Sunday morning. 

For those of you who may be unaware, the NHL Jersey Mystery Box has been a popular featured item that CoolHockey.com offers roughly a few times a year and tends to sell out pretty quickly. As for my mystery box, I would be okay with most jerseys for most teams except the LA Kings, Vegas Golden Knights, and Anaheim Ducks. This would also be my first NHL jersey produced by Adidas in my jersey collection. The other hockey jerseys I currently have are Sharks jerseys produced by Reebok and Fanatics. Regardless of what jersey I receive, it would make for a great collector’s item. 

Now for the moment we’ve all been waiting for: The jersey I received in my first-ever NHL Adidas jersey mystery box is a blank Pittsburgh Penguins home jersey. 

This wasn't the first jersey I thought I was going to unbox before I found out what it was, but for being my first Adidas NHL jersey and for someone like me who wants to build his jersey collection, this is a solid pull. The Penguins were one of the teams that I would be okay with getting a jersey for, and their primary home jersey is a great-looking jersey. Although I may not wear it that often, I plan to keep the jersey, especially for my quest to watch all 32 NHL teams play in person. I probably won't get a name and number stitched on the back of it, but if I were to, I would have either Sidney Crosby's or Jake Guentzel's name and number stitched on there. 

 

Overall, I don't see this as a complete waste and I can't complain. I am also happy that I didn't get a Kings, Golden Knights, or Ducks jersey in the mystery box. If I received a jersey of one of the Sharks' three biggest rivals in this mystery box or if that happens in the future, I would contemplate selling the jersey to try to get my money back. If you are a hockey fan and want to try your luck with NHL jerseys, I highly recommend buying a CoolHockey Mystery Box when they become available. However, I wouldn't recommend it if you only collect merchandise for your favorite team or don't enjoy taking risks. I would consider purchasing another CoolHockey Mystery Box in the future, but I won't be getting one every time they become available. Their unpredictable nature and guaranteed prize factor are what make them so exciting, special, and worthwhile.

Sharks 2021-22 Game 71 Recap: Canucks 4, Sharks 2 (4/9/22)

 The Sharks lose another one, this time to the Vancouver Canucks, 4-2 for their sixth-straight loss. 

Same deflating result, different game and day. I have gotten used to and come to expect results like this throughout the last month of this season. Early in the first period, Ryan Merkley was hit hard and hurt after turning the puck over, which led to Jason Dickinson scoring the first goal of the game for the Canucks. The Sharks followed that up about five minutes later with a goal from Tomas Hertl on the power play to tie it at one, with assists from Timo Meier and Erik Karlsson. 

Ryan Merkley was okay and eventually returned to the game in the second period. The Canucks regained their lead early in the second period via Conor Garland., while Nick Bonino tied the game at two late in the second, getting assists from Brent Burns and Noah Gregor. 

In typical 2021-22 Sharks fashion, Team Teal let things slip away once again, as they gave up the next two goals to Alex Chaisson and Luke Schenn, the latter being an empty-netter.

Kaapo Kahkonen was given the start in net, recording 35 saves and has yet to win a start in teal.

On a more positive note, Sharks goalie prospect Magnus Chrona and the University of Denver won the NCAA Hockey National Championship over Minnesota State on Saturday. 

At this point, I just want the Sharks' 2021-22 campaign to be over and the Stanley Cup Playoffs to begin. I still plan to watch as many games as I can, but don't blame me if I prioritize other things over watching this Sharks team for the rest of this season, as their efforts haven't been all that awe-inspiring lately. The next stop in the Sharks' current road trip is Nashville, where the Sharks will face the Predators on Tuesday at 5:30 pm PT. 

Source: NHL App

Sharks 2021-22 Game 70 Recap: Flames 4, Sharks 2 (4/7/22)

 The Sharks’ losing streak has been extended to five as they fall to the Calgary Flames 4-2. 

Once again, I’m not shocked that this game went the way it did as the Sharks continue to struggle. The Flames scored first in the first period via Matthew Tkachuk, while the Sharks answered back seven minutes later on a redirection from Nick Bonino. Jaycob Megna and Matt Nieto were credited with the assists on the game-tying goal in the first period. Calgary went ahead before the end of the first via Trevor Lewis to make it 2-1 Flames through one period of play. 

The Flames extended their lead to two in the second period on Elias Lindholm’s first goal of the game. Early in the third period, Logan Couture put the Sharks within one by deflecting a pass by Timo Meier from the side of the net for his 23rd goal of the season. Mario Ferraro also collected an assist on the Sharks' second goal of the game. Just after the halfway point of the third, James Reimer sustained an injury in the crease after a collision and had to exit the game, recording a total of 32 saves. Kaapo Kahkonen took Reimer's place in net and was perfect for the remainder of the game, recording five saves. However, Elias Lindholm put this one away with 30 seconds remaining with an empty-netter and his second goal of the game. 

On a more positive note, the Sharks already won the season series over the Flames 3-1. I'm not shocked at all that the Sharks let another one slip away like that, and I have come to expect results like this during the last month of the Sharks' 2021-22 campaign. 

In other news, GM Doug Wilson announced that he is stepping down from the Sharks after 19 years with the team. This doesn’t come as a surprise since Wilson has been on leave of absence since November due to an ongoing health issue. Joe Will has taken over as the Sharks’ interim GM since Wilson took his leave of absence. Under his tenure as general manager, Doug Wilson has built the Sharks into a perennial playoff contender, highlighted by winning the President’s Trophy in 2009, being Cup finalists in 2016, fleecing other teams in great trades, signing great players in free agency, and making great draft selections. Wilson stated that he will eventually return to the NHL once he is ready to do so.

Although he has made his fair share of mistakes, Doug Wilson has been nothing short of an excellent general manager. I wish him nothing but the best with his health and his future endeavors. The Sharks set a timeline between now and the start of next season to find their next general manager. It has yet to be determined if the Sharks’ next general manager believes that the Sharks can compete for the playoffs or should rebuild for the future. 

Next up, the Sharks embark on a five-game road trip starting in Vancouver against the Canucks on Saturday at 7 pm PT. 

 Sources: NBC Sports Bay Area/California, Sharks Audio Network, NHL App

Sharks 2021-22 Game 69 Recap: Oilers 2, Sharks 1 (OT) (4/5/22)

 The Sharks kept the Edmonton Oilers in check for most of this game, but the Oilers stormed back in the third period to tie the game and win it in overtime 2-1. 

This is now the Sharks’ fourth-consecutive loss, and although it seemed as if San Jose might win this one only needing one goal, the ending of this one was disheartening. 

Let’s first focus on the positive aspects of this game. Tomas Hertl scored the only goal of the first two periods on the power play late in the first period. Brent Burns is on a five-game point streak with the primary assist, while Timo Meier grabbed the secondary assist. Despite the loss, James Reimer was solid in net with 22 saves. 

On the other hand, the Sharks had a few Grade-A chances to score two goals but couldn’t get anything else past Mike Smith. They allowed Ryan Nugent-Hopkins to tie the game late in the third to force OT and Connor McDavid to score the game-winner in OT on an odd-man rush opportunity from a cross-ice pass from goalie Mike Smith. Team Teal couldn’t keep up with the speed and skill of McDavid at that moment. In addition, John Leonard, Jonah Gadjovich, and Jaycob Megna had to exit the game in regulation after blocking Edmonton shots. 

The Sharks could’ve held on and won this game easily, but they let their own struggles and Edmonton’s star power get the best of them. I had sensed this collapse from a mile away, and I’m not shocked by the end result. The Oilers were the more desperate team who has been playing better than the Sharks as of late, and they continue to find ways to win. 

San Jose plays host to the other team from Alberta, the Calgary Flames, in their next game on Thursday at 7:30 pm PT. 

Sources: NBC Sports Bay Area/California, Sharks Audio Network, NHL App 

Sharks 2021-22 Game 68 Recap: Stars 5, Sharks 4 (4/2/22)

 The Sharks made it close after giving up four goals in the first period, but the Dallas Stars held on to win 5-4. 

Not a great outing, but could’ve been worse. The Sharks scored first via Nick Bonino from Noah Gregor and Erik Karlsson, only to surrender the next four in the first period to Vladislav Namestnikov, Jani Hakanpaa, Roope Hintz, and Jason Robertson. 

Kaapo Kahkonen was given the start in net against the Stars, but giving up four goals in the first frame forced him to get pulled, and James Reimer had to enter the game to start the second period. Brent Burns got one back for the Sharks to cut their deficit to two, with Sasha Chmelevski and Jaycob Megna assisting on the Sharks’ second goal. 

Towards the midway point of the third, Joe Pavelski extended the Stars’ lead back to three. It's great that Pavs scores, but not so much against his former team. The Sharks begin to mount a comeback effort later in the third with John Leonard's first goal of the season, followed by Logan Couture's 22nd goal of the season. The last goal was almost Sasha Chmelevski's first NHL goal as he tried to poke it in, but he was credited with his second assist of the game as Logan Couture last touched it, going to the backhand and finding the back of the net. 

Mario Ferraro was activated off of the IR before this game and recorded an assist on John Leonard's first goal of the year. Erik Karlsson and Noah Gregor each recorded a total of two assists in the 5-4 loss to the Stars. 

Kaapo Kahkonen only made 10 saves before he was pulled after the first period, while James Reimer made 14 saves on 15 shots after entering the game in the second period. 

In other news, although he didn't play at all this season due to injury, Nikolai Knyzhov was re-signed to a one-year deal worth $850k, who was a pending RFA. 

The Sharks have now entered the final month of their season, and as the playoffs become further out of reach for them, it's mainly a matter of the kids proving themselves and determining the roster for next season. Their next game is on Tuesday, when they face the Edmonton Oilers at the Tank at 7:30 pm PT. 

Sources: NBC Sports Bay Area/California, NHL App

Sharks 2021-22 Game 67 Recap: Avalanche 4, Sharks 2 (3/31/22)

 The Sharks put up a good fight against one of the best teams in the NHL, but the Colorado Avalanche at home were too much for them as they lose the second game of a back-to-back set 4-2. 

Despite the less-than-ideal, not-so-surprising end result, there were a few positive takeaways for the Sharks against the powerhouse Colorado Avalanche. San Jose was able to keep the first period scoreless and answer back after the first two goals scored by the Avalanche, but were out of gas after that. The Avs' first goal of the game was scored by Alex Newhook early in the middle frame, and the Sharks answered back in the later half of that period on Timo Meier's career-best 31st goal and 67th point of the season. Timo buried it on a great feed from Tomas Hertl while Hertl was falling down. Alexander Barabanov recorded the second assist on the the first Sharks goal by Timo Meier. 

Early in the third, Darren Helm regained the lead for the Avalanche, while Brent Burns tied things back up a few minutes later. In addition, Tomas Hertl collected his second assist of the game. In the second half of the third period, the game begins to slip away for the Sharks as the Avalanche add two more goals via Mikko Rantanen and Andre Burakovsky to seal this one. Turnovers, giveaways, penalties, and other mistakes have gotten the best of the Sharks, and the Avalanche have scored the most third period goals out of any team in the NHL. I had anticipated this ugly ending for the Sharks, and although it is disappointing, I can't be too upset about this one. 

One of the main aspects keeping the Sharks in this game was Kaapo Kahkonen, who was a brick wall for most of this game and put up a whopping 42 saves in the loss. Kahkonen has been great for the Sharks so far; the team needs to win for him so his impact can truly make a difference. 

The Avalanche have completed the three-game season-series sweep of the Sharks, and this shouldn't come as much of a surprise. Despite this, the Avalanche are still a very likeable team, and I hope they can make a deep playoff run this year. 

Next up, the Sharks return home to face Joe Pavelski and the Dallas Stars on Saturday at 7:30 pm PT. 

Sources: NBC Sports Bay Area/California, NHL App