Opinion
3 min read

Can the Sharks Outswim the Devils at SAP Center?

As the San Jose Sharks prepare to host the New Jersey Devils at SAP Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The Sharks have shown a Jekyll and Hyde performance in their recent outings, which leaves one wondering which team will show up on February 28th.


Dec 1, 2023; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New Jersey Devils right wing Tyler Toffoli (73) screens San Jose Sharks goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen (36) during a shot as defenseman Ty Emberson (6) defends during the first period at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game against the Calgary Flames on February 16th, SJ displayed an offensive masterclass, netting six goals and securing a convincing win. Their shooting percentage was an impressive 19 percent, with a total of 31 shots on goal. The power play contributed with one goal from three opportunities, while their penalty kill stood firm denying all power plays against them. This victory was backed by solid goaltending that boasted a save percentage of 100 percent from 31 saves.


However, this dominant display came after a starkly contrasting performance against the Winnipeg Jets on February 15th where SJ failed to score despite firing off 17 shots. Their faceoff win percentage was low at just 38 percent and they only had one power play opportunity which they couldn't capitalize on.


Dec 1, 2023; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New Jersey Devils center Dawson Mercer (91) scores a goal past San Jose Sharks goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen (36) as defenseman Nikita Okhotiuk (83) defends during the first period at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

The inconsistency continued as they faced off against the Anaheim Ducks back on February 1st. The Sharks managed to scrape together two goals from their efforts but ultimately fell in overtime despite having three power play chances and maintaining a decent shorthanded faceoff win rate of 60 percent.


The upcoming game presents an opportunity for redemption or further disappointment for SJ fans. If they can replicate their form shown in Calgary rather than Winnipeg or Anaheim, there's no reason why they can't claim another victory at home.


Dec 1, 2023; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New Jersey Devils center Nico Hischier (13) skates with the puck as San Jose Sharks defenseman Kyle Burroughs (4) pursues during the first period at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

The Devils should not be underestimated though; any lapse in concentration could prove costly for SJ who must tighten up defensively and make every shot count if they are to succeed.


Fans eagerly awaiting this clash should mark their calendars for February 28th when the puck drops at SAP Center at San Jose at precisely (7:30 PM PST). For those unable to attend in person, you can catch all the action live via ESPN+ online or tune into NBCS-CA channel number (698) or MSGSN channel number (635) for television broadcasts.

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