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