Opinion
3 min read

Clash of the Pacific: San Jose Sharks Set to Battle Vegas Golden Knights

As the San Jose Sharks prepare to host the Vegas Golden Knights at SAP Center, fans are bracing for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Sharks' recent performances have been a mixed bag, but there's an undercurrent of potential that could see them turn the tide in their favor.


Dec 10, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; San Jose Sharks defenseman Mario Ferraro (38) celebrates with left wing Anthony Duclair (10) and left wing Fabian Zetterlund (20) after scoring a goal against the Vegas Golden Knights during the first period at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game on December 24 against the Vancouver Canucks, despite a loss with 4 points scored and 6 goals conceded, there were glimpses of promise. The Sharks managed to hit a shooting percentage of 16 percent with even strength goals accounting for all four they netted. However, their power play was less impressive; failing to convert any opportunities into goals from six shots taken.


The defensive side showed some resilience with 22 blocked shots and 19 hits but was overshadowed by an overall minus-11 plus-minus rating indicating issues in maintaining balance between offensive pushes and defensive solidity.


Dec 10, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Vegas Golden Knights right wing Jonathan Marchessault (81) warms up before the start of a game against the San Jose Sharks at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

Comparatively, in their previous home game on December 22 against the Arizona Coyotes, the Sharks only managed two goals from an overwhelming 31 shots – translating into a meager shooting percentage of six percent. Their power play again failed to deliver results from three attempts. On this occasion though, goaltending was more effective with saves made on all but five out of thirty shots faced.


Against Los Angeles Kings earlier on December 20 at home turf as well, it was another low-scoring affair for SJ where they only found the back of the net once despite taking sixteen shots. Their power play did manage one goal from five chances which is something positive they can build upon moving forward.


Dec 10, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Jiri Patera (30) makes a save against the San Jose Sharks during the third period at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

What stands out is that while SJ has struggled offensively in terms of converting chances into goals recently; defensively they've shown tenacity especially when down a man – evident by their shorthanded performance against both Coyotes and Kings where they allowed only one goal each time.


Looking ahead at VGK who come visiting next week Monday night; it's clear that if SJ wants to emerge victorious they need more efficiency upfront combined with continued grit defensively especially during penalty kills which have been commendable lately.


The upcoming game is scheduled for February 19th at SAP Center at San Jose starting at sharp nine o'clock PM Eastern Time (ET). Fans can catch all action live nationally on ESPN+ or locally via NBCS-CA channel number 698 or SCRIPPS depending on your location. Don't miss out as these two Pacific Division rivals go head-to-head in what promises to be an enthralling matchup!

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