Opinion
3 min read

Can the San Jose Sharks Ignite at Scotiabank Saddledome?

As the San Jose Sharks prepare to face off against the Calgary Flames at Scotiabank Saddledome, fans are left pondering whether their team can turn up the heat and secure a win. The upcoming clash on February 16th is not just another game; it's an opportunity for SJ to redeem themselves after a series of challenging matchups.


Apr 12, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; San Jose Sharks goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen (36) makes a save against Calgary Flames center Jonathan Huberdeau (10) during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

The Sharks' recent performance has been a rollercoaster, with their last game against the Vancouver Canucks on December 24th ending in a disappointing 4-7 loss. Despite scoring first in two out of three periods and landing 25 shots on goal, their defense crumbled, allowing six goals during even strength play and one empty-netter. The goaltending was less than stellar with only a save percentage rounding to 100 percent but letting seven total goals slip by.


In contrast, when they played at home against the Arizona Coyotes on December 22nd, SJ showed signs of life despite falling short with a final score of 2-5. They managed to fire off an impressive number of shots (31), but only converted two into goals – highlighting an area that desperately needs improvement: shooting accuracy.


Apr 12, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; San Jose Sharks goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen (36) makes a save against Calgary Flames center Jonathan Huberdeau (10) during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

Another home game that stands as a stark reminder was against the Los Angeles Kings on December 20th. The Sharks were able to muster only one goal from their modest tally of 16 shots while conceding four times – once again underscoring defensive frailties and lackluster offense.


However, it's not all doom and gloom for SJ fans. There are glimmers of hope that suggest they could potentially outplay Calgary if certain aspects align in their favor. Their faceoff win percentage has shown some consistency hovering around mid-range percentages which could be pivotal in controlling the game's tempo if improved upon slightly.


Apr 12, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; San Jose Sharks goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen (36) makes a save against the Calgary Flames during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

Moreover, special teams might play a crucial role; although powerplay opportunities have been few and far between for SJ recently, capitalizing on them could be key to overcoming CGY’s defenses. On top of this, tightening up defensively will be essential - particularly during even-strength situations where most goals have been conceded.


The upcoming battle will test whether San Jose can address these issues effectively under pressure away from home ice – something they must do if they wish to climb up from their current standings slump.


Sharks enthusiasts should mark their calendars for February 16th at Scotiabank Saddledome where puck drop is scheduled for February 15th at 9:00 PM EST (6:00 PM PST). Fans can catch all the action live as it unfolds either nationally via ESPN+ or locally through NBCS-CA channel number 698.

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