Blackhawks Downed

In a game that meant first place atop the Western Conference standings, the San Jose Sharks came into Chicago last night and took what was given to them.

A 3-2 win by San Jose gave them 51 points, now two ahead of the Blackhawks for first place in the West, and four ahead of the Kings for first place in the Pacific Division.

The Sharks tallied only 14 shots against Cristobal Huet, a season low. It is also only the second time this season that San Jose has been held under 20 shots on goal. In addition, the Sharks allowed a season high 47 shots on net.

How you ask did the Sharks escape and leave Chicago with a win? The answer is simple………………Evgeni Nabokov. Nabby turned away 45 of those 47 shots and through the first two periods, he was brilliant allowing no goals. Nabby is definitely in mid season form and has played excellent as of late. He has won his last three starts.

Chicago did score 4:10 into the third period to cut San Jose’s lead to one goal, but 20 seconds later Jason Demers scored his second goal of the season to give the Sharks a lead that they would not relinquish.

Dany Heatley and Jumbo Joe Thornton scored San Jose’s first two goals, Thornton’s was shorthanded on an excellent pass from Little Joe Pavelski. Both shots beat Huet top shelf.

The Sharks are off until Saturday where they will be back in San Jose to host the last place Anaheim Ducks.

My 3 Stars of the Game:

1st Star – Nabby – 45 Saves
2nd Star – Jumbo Joe – SH Goal, Assist, +3
3rd Star – The Heater – Goal, Assist, + 2