BoT Gameday: Ducks @ Sharks

After the two day layoff for all NHL teams, we get back into the thick of things. Tonight it’s the almost traditional Boxing Day game, as the Sharks will take on the surprisingly disappointing Anaheim Ducks at the Shark Tank.

San Jose has won four in a row and looking like they are finally getting into a groove despite injuries taking a toll. Outside Mike Richards’ power play goal on Friday, the Sharks have killed every power play against them in their last three games. As reported by several beat writers, Antti Niemi will start in net tonight, with Thomas Greiss as the backup.

With Antero Niittymaki back from injury and his conditioning stint in Worcester, you wonder what Sharks GM Doug Wilson will be looking for in a trade. Both Niittymaki and Greiss have contracts that end this year and there might be some teams needing a goaltender to make a stretch run. However, Wilson will likely make the move for an Eastern Conference team as to not duplicate what transpired in the Miikka Kiprusoff trade back in 2003.

As for the Sharks on Boxing Day, not counting the two lockout seasons, they have played on the day after Christmas 15 times. They are 8-7 overall, as they usually play a nearby rival (Vancouver, Los Angeles, Anaheim, Phoenix, Colorado) but are 2-3 against Anaheim, with the most recent being a 5-2 defeat in 2009. Patrick Marleau scored his 300th NHL goal in that game.

As we get closer to the NHL Winter Classic, it would be curious to wonder what the Sharks and their opponent would wear in the game.

For the Ducks, they would go back to their “Mighty” days with their original look from the inaugural season of 1993-94.

As for our San Jose Sharks, a slight twist to their original Pacific Teal jersey. The white is a little more creamier, a tie up neck line. And the return of the fin on each shoulder.

What do you think? Let us know on twitter @BladesOfTeal or my own twitter page @Puckguy14

Enjoy your Boxing Day!