It wasn't long ago that the strength of the San Jose Sharks was its defense. That notion seems ridiculous considering the way they've been playing of late. San Jose won their last game against the Arizona Coyotes, but it took six goals to do so against one of the leagues worst teams.
Yes, they won, but that white elephant in the room can't be ignored any longer. Take a look at this mind-blowing tweet from Darin Stephens....
#SJSharks goals allowed per game this season, with NHL rank:
— Darin Stephens (@SharksStats) January 15, 2018
Through Dec. 1 (24 Games) - 2.13 (Fewest) Allowed 5+ Goals 4 Times
Since Dec. 2 (17 Games) - 3.41 (T-5th Most) Allowed 5+ Five Times
The numbers don't lie. Something is up and it may not bode well for the teal and black down the stretch. To take it one step further, since 12/31 the Sharks have allowed five or more goals three times and six goals twice. The defense is bleeding goals to the tune of 24 goals in the last six games - That's a 4.00 GAA. Additionally, San Jose has surrendered eight third period goals during this head-scratching stretch of defensive futility. Yes, that includes the blown three goal lead vs. Ottawa.
I wanted to believe it was just fatigue. I cannot use that as an excuse any longer. Turnovers are part of the blame. San Jose is playing much too loose with the puck. Is this the Brent Burns effect? Score a bunch of goals and play defense when convenient?
San Jose's goals against average has ballooned up to 2.66. They remain in the top five defensively, but are dropping and they are no longer in a comfortable playoff position. Everybody around them is winning - a lot. Four points separates six teams for the two wild card spots. The Sharks are currently out of a playoff spot, but have the luxury of only playing 41 games.
- Today's game against Los Angeles should be a good one. The Kings are stumbling a bit. They've allowed 12 goals in the last three games - all regulation loses. Maybe the Sharks suddenly potent offense will stay hot. I'll be watching to see how the defense fairs.
Which Sharks team shows up? The big, brooding, defensive stalwart? Or the frantic, sloppy and high-scoring team we've seen of late?
What do you think? Are you worried about the Sharks defense or do you think it's just one of those mid-season bumps in the road?
Thanks for reading, Steve