The San Jose Sharks (8-5-0) are riding a four-game winning streak for the first time this season. The streaking Sharks are gaining traction in the Pacific Division thanks to a staunch physical presence, timely scoring and lights out goaltending from Marty Jones.
Jones was named the NHL's second star of the week, after allowing just four goals with a beef .938 GAA During a 3-0 stretch. The Sharks netminder joins Logan Couture as the second Shark to garner star of the week honors this season.
With 16 points in 13 games, San Jose has clearly shaken off their early season funk to move into a third place tie in the Pacific Division. Los Tiburones trail only the Knights (19pts) and Kings (22pts) in the division. It should be noted that the Sharks and Oilers are the only teams in the Pacific to have played less than 14 games.
With impressive wins over Toronto, Nashville and Anaheim, the Sharks are establishing themselves as a surprise threat out West. San Jose is using their size and physicality to wear down their foes before they bury them for good. SJ's success goes well beyond just being tough. As mentioned above, Jones has been great between the pipes, while a variety of players are chipping in offensively. Eight different players have scored goals during the current four-game win streak.
The scheduling gods aren't giving the Sharks any breaks any time soon. The East leading Lightning and upstart Canucks visit the Tank before the teal and black travel south to visit the resurgent LA Kings.
If the Sharks come through this three-game gauntlet relatively unscathed we can start considering San Jose less of a surprise and more of a real threat going forward.
Thanks for reading, Steve