The San Jose Sharks Captain Joe Pavelski is listed as day-to-day and is doubtful for Game 1 of their second round series against the Colorado Avalanche.
During the third period of Game 7 in their first round series against the Vegas Golden Knights. San Jose Sharks captain Joe Pavelski got sent off-balance by a cross check and came crashing down to the ice with a significant amount of force.
Pavelski laid motionless while members of the Sharks signaled for the training staff for assistance almost immediately. Thankfully he got off under his own power despite the extremely graphic scene that unfolded on the ice. People were obviously shocked by seeing blood visibly pouring out of the veteran skaters helmet.
This traumatic sequence of events sparked the San Jose Sharks 4 goal rally that pushed this team into the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. But at that moment when Pavelski laid bleeding on the ice. It was difficult for fans, staff members, and teammates alike not to fear the worst for himself and his family.
Yesterday was a day filled with mixed emotions. The Sharks and their fans celebrated their historic comeback victory, but also were anxiously waiting for news regarding their Captain.
But today had a much different tone surrounding it. Coach Pete DeBoer announced to the media and it was echoed via the San Jose Sharks official Twitter account that there is a timetable for Pavelski’s return.
Per Coach DeBoer, Joe Pavelski is day-to-day but unlikely to play in tomorrow's Game 1. #SJSharks
— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) April 25, 2019
Everyone can take a deep breath and relax. Joe Pavelski being listed day-to-day indicates that it is likely that he will see a game in this series against the Colorado Avalanche.
The San Jose Sharks need all the help they can get. Even with the depth of Team Teal, losing your captain and leading goal scorer (during the regular season) is something that many teams would struggle to overcome. However adversity is not new for the Sharks during these Stanley Cup Playoffs. All they can do is adapt and press on towards their first Stanley Cup in franchise history.
Their second round match-up versus the Colorado Avalanche is to begin 7 PM PT Friday Night at the SAP Center. They’ll likely be without Joe Pavelski for Game 1, however anticipate a carry over effect from the Game 7’s heroics to get the Sharks going in the early stages of the contest.