Gameday Preview: Sharks-Kings Take Rivalry Outdoors
Feb 20, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; A general view of Levis Stadium during a practice day before the Stadium Series hockey game between the Los Angeles Kings and San Jose Sharks. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
It’s finally here. After months of buildup and excitement, the San Jose Sharks and Los Angeles Kings will square off under the lights at Levi’s Stadium. The matchup will pit two heated rivals in the midst of a hotly contested playoff chase in the Pacific Division. The potential four-point swing only adds to the importance of this game as the two teams battle for bragging rights in California. Here’s a breakdown of each team heading into this matchup, along with key players and a prediction.
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San Jose Sharks
The hosts got a much needed victory over the Dallas Stars on Thursday night and will need to string some wins together. San Jose has won only three of their previous 10 games which has seen the Sharks teeter on the edge of the playoff picture. The Sharks will need to shore up their defense if they have any shot of solidifying their playoff position. San Jose currently ranks 23rd in goals against per game and are the only playoff team with a negative goal differential (minus-two). San Jose must get better production from their core four of Joe Thornton, Joe Pavelski, Patrick Marleau and Logan Couture down the stretch.
Los Angeles Kings
The Kings head to the Bay Area on a tear as Los Angeles has rattled off six-straight victories after struggling mightily in January. The Kings have regained their mojo due in large part to their offensive attack as Los Angeles has outscored their opponents 23-12 during their recent hot streak. While the Kings have been playing well, they still find themselves two points out of a playoff spot. This game gives the Kings an opportunity to pull even with the Sharks in the standings and tie the season series at two as well.
Players to Watch
Antti Niemi: Niemi has been inconsistent just like the rest of his teammates thus far, but he remains an important figure for the Sharks. Niemi is on pace for the worst statistical season of his career, but San Jose hopes Niemi can replicate his strong performance from the other night, when he made 37 saves in the Sharks 5-2 win. Niemi is 2-1 against the Kings thus far.
Tyle Toffoli: Toffoli has been red-hot for the Kings racking up six goals and three assists during the month of February. Toffoli leads Los Angeles in goals (19) and plus/minus (plus-20) and is third on the team in points (38). Needless to say, the 22-year-old Toffoli has been a big spark for a Kings team that struggles at times to put the puck in the net. The Sharks have had a shaky defense of late and will need to be aware of Toffoli whenever the puck is on his stick.
Prediction
These two teams typically play tight-checking, high-intensity hockey and spectators should expect much of the same at Levi’s Stadium. While the ice won’t be in great condition, the goals should still come in this one as both teams want to come away with a victory in regulation. With all the buzz surrounding the game, the Sharks will feed off the home crowd and pull out a 3-2 victory, with a third period power play goal by Joe Pavelski being the difference.