San Jose Sharks

[tgraveline]

I think the issue with both Pavelski and Marleau is that while the Sharks can score a ton, they are in a weird sense, score by committee team. The guys are usually consistent, but as they get older they seem to rely on more and more people to work the scoring. You have Thornton, Marleau, Pavelski, Clowe, Couture in charge of this with guy like Ferriero and McGinn along with others doing damage as well. I haven't seen Thornton get a 3 or 4 point night in a while. He just isn't as dynamic as he used to be. He's still good, but I think he's become more predictable, which is why these other guys who play on a line with him like Pavelski or Marleau (when on the same line) drop off once in a while.

With Havlat out, that has changed up the lines some more. I do think the top two defensive pairings have been fairly good at getting the puck up to the forwards so that shouldn't be the issue.

Remember, Marleau though he may be underrated is underrated for a reason in my opinion. I'm a huge fan of this team, but Marleau has never become what I think he could have been. Pavelski is a playoff performer. He thrives on that, and I think coming down the stretch is when we'll see more from him, and those who play with him, like Thornton.

Hope this helps guys.

[dyzfunctioned]

Sharks were one of my favorites to go the distance this year (finally). Hopefully they kick it up a notch.

They have so many good offensive options and their blueline is much improved as well.

[metaldude26]

Sharks were one of my favorites to go the distance this year (finally). Hopefully they kick it up a notch.

They have so many good offensive options and their blueline is much improved as well.

They are playing rope-a-dope this year. Just wait for them to kick it into high gear come playoff time. Peaking at the right time is the key to winning. If you'll recall from my standings based on goal differential piece the Sharks are in the top 10 in the league, which is right where they need to be.

[dyzfunctioned]

They are playing rope-a-dope this year. Just wait for them to kick it into high gear come playoff time. Peaking at the right time is the key to winning. If you'll recall from my standings based on goal differential piece the Sharks are in the top 10 in the league, which is right where they need to be.

Yea, that was a great writeup.

[tgraveline]

I'm rather hopeful. Havlat should be coming back for the stretch run and the playoffs. He's had hit and miss playoff performances, but I'd love to see him have a hit one this year so we win it. Would be incredible for hockey in the Bay Area and just California period. The Ducks win was nice and I think it's provided a boom in SoCal, but wouldn't be the same as the Kings winning or the Sharks. I think they just have more pull in the state.

[tgraveline]

Okay, Looking forward to tonight's game. I watched some of the game last night, but just glad they finally beat the second worst team in the league. Can anyone explain to me why Anaheim sucks so much? Is it their defense or what? I just see them play the Sharks and they always play better against us.

Anyways, I'm looking to see the Sharks continue their roll as they need to win these games they have in hand to use to their advantage come the end of the season. I really do feel this could be the year, but then again, Pierre Lebrun and I keep saying that.

As always, feel free to come in and check out my ramblings about the team during the game. I'm a harsh critic of my team, but a diehard fan. Getting to hang out with the players in the locker room after beating Gretzky and the Kings in the early 90s will do that to you.

[tgraveline]

This powerplay is frustrating to watch. Whoever is in charge of coaching this blows in this regard. They went into the powerplay for the first 2 minutes just running and gunning like it was 5 on 5. Take your time and play that puck possession style that's so effective guys! They finally scored, but it took them 3 minutes out of the 4 to settle down and get something going. That's just not acceptable if this team is going to win a Stanley Cup. They have to have poise, and I still don't see that.

[tgraveline]

It's been a fun game to watch the Sharks against the Caps. It's been quite fast-paced and I really wish these teams got to play against each other more often. It's really needed.

That being said, Caps PP goal was a beautiful play. Sharks are playing hard and Brent Burns has a great smile when he's having fun. At this point, I could see either team winning. It's going to come down to the Captains though. Ovi has made some really good plays so hopefully Joe Thornton does something.

[ross10019]

Marleau with 7pts in his last 4, 9 in his last 6, and 15 in his last 12 (+8 in that span), and with 22SOG in his last 4 games. Nice stretch.

[tgraveline]

Yes, he's playing much better and almost appears to be under the radar. He's always been underrated in my mind with the potential to be a true star. He just always kind of lacked that gusto to show it off.

Sharks got a shutout last night and it looked pretty easy against the Jets. Niemi played a good game and there were times the Defense barely got themselves out of a jam, but that was good to see. They're rolling and it should only continue.

[kluu]

i hope winchester and mcginn really come through in the playoffs. we really really need that 3rd line punch

[tgraveline]

Winchester has been really good on that 4th line and McGinn is playing really well. I think those guys could make or break us this playoffs if we don't go after a bigger name 3rd liner.

[kluu]

need someone to make a Vlasic video of him making defensive plays over and over

[kluu]

hey, I was watchin the caps game the other night and how nice would it be to see Laich in Teal? maybe they'll take mitchell, prospect and pick? lol

well nevermind, after lookin at nhlnumbers. mitchell only worth 1.3 right now while laich is making a big 4.5

[Twiggy]

Yeah McGinn finally seems to remember that he knows how to score goals and not just be a big lummox. It's nice