SAN JOSE -- Obviously the Sharks main problem is getting contributions from the 3rd and 4th lines. This game accomplished that and seeing the less heralded names on the scoresheet.

Marty Havlat scored his first goal since December 17 and Tommy Wingels netted the game-winner in the Sharks 2-1 overtime win over the Dallas Stars.

The Sharks haven't had many scoring chances in recent games. They were buoyed by the return of right wing Adam Burish who made his season debut vs. Dallas a little sooner than expected. Many including myself thought he wouldn't be back until after the Olympic break.

Following the meltdown by Antti Niemi vs. the Flyers, coach Todd McLellan decided to give Alex Stalock the start in net and why not. Stalock entered the game with a 1.73 GAA and a .937 save percentage.

The Sharks haven't been able to score much on the power play, nor have they had many opportunities. Other teams are simply doing a better job staying out of the penalty box.

This game was rather sloppy on both sides, not many scoring chances, too many passes and giveaways.

Turning point

The game-winner by Tommy Wingels.

In the dressing room, Wingels said, "You know I'm a big part of the group that the scoring has kind of vanished from and there are only so many guys to pick that up. I got one tonight but the numbers in the past games still aren't where they need to be so it's something we're working on and we're confident players, we'll get there."

Game highlights



Goal descriptions

1. A shot from the point by Scott Hannan is redirected by Havlat near the slot, Bracken Kearns draws two defenders and Kari Lehtonen leans towards Kearns direction leaving the net wide open.

2. Valeri Nichuskin fakes a shot, then gets the puck on a centering feed for a quick one-timer past Alex Stalock.

3. pass from the left circle down low to Havlat who feeds Wingels with a perfect pass for the wrister which easily beats Lehtonen.

Contenders

Tommy Wingels - scores the game winning goal after twice being on the receiving end of two penalties and like the rest of the Sharks, struggling to create any scoring chances. Had to feel great to be the hero on a night the Sharks had only two shots on goal in the third period.

Valeri Nichushkin - The impressive 18-year old youngster for Dallas. In the third period, he tied the game skating in himself, making a beautiful backhand pass through the crease. Although the Stars wouldn't score on that play, they kept the puck in the zone and on a centering feed, Nichushkin gets the goal on a one-timer from the slot.

Marty Havlat - A goal and an assist from # 9 who has been practically invisible all season. Injuries have plagued his productivity since he's been a Shark.

Pretenders

Erik Cole - blantently takes two penalties, both while defending against Tommy Wingels. One for slashing which was OK although it appeared it was picking on him for tripping, minutes later. Wingels got up and pushed Cole but the officials held Wingels back from retaliating further.

Sharks power play - After scoring against Philadelphia to end an 0-for-16 skid on the man advantage, the Sharks were 0-for-3 against the Stars. I don't recall more than one shot on goal on the PP the entire night.

Up next, the Sharks final game before the Olympic break as they host the Columbus Blue Jackets on Friday night.

Keep your head up,

Ryan Leong

Tweets by @RyanLeong

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