Sharks Finally Lose in Regulation

Sharks 2, Kings 4

Well, it was going to happen sooner or later, but the San Jose Sharks finally lost a game in regulation. After going 20 games (18-0-2) garnering at least one point, Team Teal let two slip away to the worst team in the NHL. And you know what, I could care less...I'm ready for the playoffs and nothing else.

I know it is extremely important that San Jose continues to focus on the moment, keep good habits, and work on a number of things before the playoffs start. However, ever since the Sharks locked up the Pacific, I have been paying less attention to the remaining regular season games.

Does this make me a bad Sharks fan? I guess a little bit, but what I find more interesting is that if I'm losing focus on the now, it must be way more difficult for the players. After a long and grueling season to get to the playoffs, it's understandable if they let a game or two get away from them. What you have to look out for is a long string of mediocre games right before the post-season. Fortunately, San Jose only has one game left, so at worst, Team Teal will only drop two games prior to facing the Number 7 seed in San Jose.

At any rate, last night's game was a good opportunity to rest some banged up bodies while giving those who need it, a little extra ice time. I was surprised to see Nabby in net, but I figure Wilson will start Boucher against Dallas. This will give Number 20 a longer rest before the start of the first round.

Notes:

Thornton again scored on the first shift of the game, his 29th of the year.
Tom Cavanagh got the call up and scored a point by assisting on Thornton's goal in the first 36 seconds of play.
Joe Pavelski scored his 19th goal of the season on the powerplay which went 1 for 1 on the night.

A San Jose Sharks Blog