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Sharks Outpaced by Blackhawks in High-Scoring Affair at United Center

The San Jose Sharks, with a record of 10-14, faced off against the Chicago Blackhawks, who held a record of 15-9. The final scoreline read 5-2 in favor of the home team.


Mar 17, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Philipp Kurashev (23) scores against the San Jose Sharks during the second period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

The Sharks opened the game with an impressive first period, netting two goals and setting a strong pace. However, their momentum was halted as they were unable to add to their tally in the subsequent periods. The team's shooting percentage stood at seven percent as they managed to put up 27 shots on goal throughout the game but only found success twice.


San Jose's goaltender faced a challenging night between the pipes, making 26 saves on a total of 30 shots before an empty-netter brought his goals against count to five. Despite his efforts, he was credited with the loss as his save percentage for even-strength shots remained perfect until those final moments.


Mar 17, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; San Jose Sharks center Klim Kostin (10) scores a goal against the Chicago Blackhawks during the first period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

On defense, San Jose blocked a notable number of attempts from Chicago with 12 blocked shots contributing to their defensive efforts. In terms of physicality, they registered 15 hits over three periods but struggled in faceoffs winning just under half at forty-five percent.


Chicago's offense came alive after being shut out in the first period by scoring one goal in the second and erupting for four more goals in third. Their shooting accuracy was significantly higher than that of San Jose’s at sixteen percent from their total shot count which also amounted to thirty-one attempts on goal.


Mar 17, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard (98) controls the puck against San Jose Sharks left wing Fabian Zetterlund (20) during the third period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

The Blackhawks' goaltender turned away twenty-five shots from San Jose and finished with an even-strength save percentage mirroring that of his counterpart before closing out without conceding any further goals. Chicago also demonstrated strength on special teams despite not converting; they created two powerplay opportunities and maintained puck control during these moments as evidenced by winning sixty-seven percent faceoffs while having man advantage.


As fans look ahead after this tough outing for San Jose Sharks, attention shifts towards their next challenge which will see them travel to Bridgestone Arena where they will meet Nashville Predators. This upcoming match is scheduled for March 20th and fans can catch all action live through various broadcast networks including ESPN+ online or NBCS-CA and BSSO on television starting at 7:00 PM CT.

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