Overview
The San Jose Sharks have finally picked up some steam, especially on this critical six-game road trip, where they have now won five straight. Can they make it six against a tough Columbus Blue Jackets team?
Team Stats
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Players to Watch
Sharks: On Saturday, Patrick Marleau became the 83rd player in NHL history to reach 1,000 career points. Most impressively, they’ve all come as a member of the Sharks. Look for him to keep hounding the puck for more points.
Blue Jackets: Ryan Johansen is one of the bright young stars in the NHL, and at just 23-years-old, he’s probably the best player for Columbus. Johansen has three goals and 12 assists on the young season, but he’s someone the Sharks are going to have to be aware of at all points during the game.
Injuries/Scratches
Sharks: Logan Couture (fractured right fibula) is out.
Blue Jackets: Cody Goloubef (fractured jaw), Brandon Dubinsky (elbow), David Clarkson (back), Jared Boll (foot), Alexander Wennberg (lower body), Fedor Tyutin (broken nose)
Keys to the Game
1) Feed Off Momentum
The Sharks are currently playing their best hockey all season and are in the midst of a five-game winning streak. They had another important win last night against the Pittsburgh Penguins. It’s only fitting that they play the same against the Blue Jackets tonight. That means keeping it simple, playing to your strength, and playing straight-ahead hockey. Everyone’s feel confident in the locker room right now so you don’t want to change a thing. Keep the same game plan you’ve succeeded with on this road trip, and finish strong to get the win.
2) Be Ready to Play at Puck Drop
The last time the Sharks played the Blue Jackets, it was at home and one of their worst performances all year, which is a shame considering those are really nice looking Heritage jerseys. You have to be ready from the start of the game, at the opening puck drop. Be mentally ready to play, get those legs moving, and get a good feel of the game. Most importantly, don’t let the opponents catch you falling asleep. Carrying over from my first key, you don’t want to lose the momentum you have on the road trip. Play a 60-minute game, make a conscious effort to make every play count defensively and offensively, and finish strong so you can go back to San Jose happy.
Next: San Jose Sharks: Defense Paves The Way For Fifth Straight Win
TV/Radio Broadcast
TV: CSNCA
Radio: 98.5 KFOX