As the San Jose Sharks prepare to host the Columbus Blue Jackets at the SAP Center, fans are bracing for what promises to be an intriguing matchup. The Sharks' recent performances have been a mixed bag, but there's reason for cautious optimism as they return to their home ice.

Mar 14, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets left winger Patrik Laine (29) lines up a shot at San Jose Sharks goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen (36) and defenseman Matt Benning (5) during the first period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-USA TODAY Sports

In their last encounter with the Vancouver Canucks on December 24, 2023, San Jose managed to net four goals on 25 shots. Despite this offensive output and a shooting percentage of 16 percent, defensive lapses led to a -11 plus-minus rating and ultimately a loss with six goals against. The powerplay opportunities didn't translate into goals despite having three chances. This is an area where improvement is crucial if they want better results against Columbus.

The game prior on December 22 saw the Sharks fall short against the Arizona Coyotes at home with only two goals scored from an impressive 31 shots. Their shooting percentage was just six percent that night – far below what they're capable of. However, one positive takeaway was their even-strength performance where both goals were scored.

Mar 14, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets center Boone Jenner (38) takes down San Jose Sharks center Nico Sturm (7) while pursuing the puck with Sharks defenseman Matt Benning (5) during the first period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-USA TODAY Sports

Against Los Angeles Kings on December 20, it was again a story of missed opportunities for San Jose. They managed only one goal from 16 shots and had a powerplay success with one goal during three opportunities but still ended up losing due in part to an empty-netter by Los Angeles.

The upcoming game presents another chance for redemption. The Sharks need to capitalize on their strengths – creating scoring chances and improving faceoff win percentages which stood at around fifty-eight percent in even-strength situations during these past games.

Mar 14, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Andrew Peeke (2) and San Jose Sharks center Nico Sturm (7) pursue the puck during the second period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-USA TODAY Sports

On defense, goaltending has been solid despite losses; save percentages were consistently high across all strength situations including shorthanded plays where they maintained perfect records in two out of three games mentioned above.

Columbus Blue Jackets will not make it easy though; they'll come prepared and ready for battle. It's imperative that San Jose steps up its game especially when it comes down to converting powerplay opportunities into points on the board and tightening up defensively so as not to give away easy goals.

This match is more than just another fixture; it's about proving resilience and bouncing back stronger after setbacks that have tested team spirit and resolve this season so far.

Fans can catch all the action live or tune into ESPN+ nationally or NBCS-CA channel number 698 locally if you're rooting from home ground or BSOH channel number 660 if following from away territory when these teams face off on February 18th at SAP Center at San Jose starting at sharp ten thirty PM Eastern Time (7:30 PM local time).

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