Opinion
3 min read

Can the San Jose Sharks Turn the Tide at Canada Life Centre?

As the San Jose Sharks prepare to face off against the Winnipeg Jets at Canada Life Centre, fans are left pondering whether their team can reverse their recent fortunes. The Sharks' performance in previous games has been a mixed bag of resilience and missed opportunities, which sets up an intriguing encounter.


Dec 12, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; Winnipeg Jets defenseman Josh Morrissey (44) stands with center Mark Scheifele (55) and defenseman Dylan DeMelo (2) during a timeout against the San Jose Sharks in the second period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game on December 24 against the Vancouver Canucks, despite a strong offensive showing with 4 goals and a shooting percentage of 16 percent, defensive lapses led to a loss with 6 goals conceded during even strength play. The Sharks' goaltending was less than stellar, saving only 19 out of 25 shots. This inconsistency has been a recurring theme; just two days prior on December 22 against the Arizona Coyotes, they suffered another defeat despite firing off an impressive number of shots (31), but converting only two into goals.


However, it's not all doom and gloom for SJ. Their powerplay opportunities have been limited but effective when utilized properly. Against Los Angeles Kings on December 20, they capitalized on one such chance out of three powerplays. This is an area where they could potentially exploit Winnipeg's weaknesses if given enough chances.


Dec 12, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Sharks left wing William Eklund (72) shakes hands with his teammates on the bench after scoring a power play goal against the Winnipeg Jets during the third period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports

The upcoming game presents both challenge and opportunity for SJ. The Jets will be looking to leverage home advantage at Canada Life Centre to secure victory. However, SJ must focus on improving their faceoff win percentage which stood at only around half in recent games; this could be crucial in controlling the game's tempo.


Defensively speaking, blocking shots and reducing giveaways will be key factors if SJ hopes to contain Winnipeg's offense while finding ways to penetrate through what is expected to be robust opposition defense.


Dec 12, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; Winnipeg Jets center Mason Appleton (22) extends for the puck with his stick against San Jose Sharks right wing Kevin Labanc (62)  during the third period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports

For fans eager to see if San Jose can skate away with a win or if Winnipeg will defend their home ice successfully – mark your calendars for February 15th at 7:30 PM EST (6:30 PM local time). The action from Canada Life Centre will be broadcasted nationally via ESPN+ and locally for away fans through NBCS-CA channel 698.

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