The San Jose Sharks destroyed the New Jersey Devils 6-2 at the SAP Center for their fifth win in a row.
San Jose exploited a struggling Corey Schneider, scoring four times on fourteen shots before he was replaced by Keith Kinkaid. It was the 11th consecutive (0-9-2) loss for the former Devils' starter.
The Sharks dealt a major blow to the Devils playoff chances was strengthening their own. They lead the Kings by four points for second place in the Pacific Division with a game in hand.
The Sharks spread the scoring around big time. Barclay Goodrow, Mikel Boedker, Logan Couture, Erik Fehr, Jannik Hansen and Joe Pavelski each had a goal. Brent Burns chipped in with three apples and Martin Jones made 26 saves for his 26th win. He's four wins away from his third consecutive 30+ win season.
San Jose's defense stayed red hot. They have at least five goals in four of their last five games, They have 27 goals in the five games since being shutout by Washington on 3/10.
The Sharks are in the driver's seat when it comes to clinching a playoff spot. With less than three weeks left in the regular season they've built a five point lead over the last wild card team (ANA). The schedule gets tougher from here though. Seven of their final nine games are against playoff teams or teams fighting for their playoff lives.
I know other's have the Sharks missing the playoffs, but I think they still have a shot at the Pacific. They trail Vegas by eight points and play them twice. The first game is tomorrow night at the Tank. If they win both in regulation they have a chance.
Thanks for reading, Steve