By all accounts the only reason the Sharks came out of last night’s game with a point was due to the performance by Alex Stalock. The Sharks goalie had 45 shots directed his way in a very uncharacteristic defensive performance by San Jose. The game itself saw New York send a statement to the league: We’re the real deal. Unfortunately, the Sharks were the messengers.
Within the loss there are positives to take away from the game.
Alex Stalock
The Sharks goalie put forth a solid performance in a loss that saw him see more pucks than usual for a Sharks goalie. He weathered the storm and gave the Sharks a point they didn’t deserve and a chance to win. That’s all the Sharks look for in a starter; give the skaters a chance to win. Stalock has taken the lead in the battle for the number one job early on in my books.
Power Play
The Sharks got another power play goal in a game where the ref’s put the whistle away. Scoring on their only chance, the Sharks made the most of the opportunity which was a crucial part of them getting to overtime and beyond. That’s what a top power play needs to do, capitalize when you get the chance. They’re on the right track.
Tomas Hertl
Hertl now has two goals in four games to start the season but the goal last night was more important. Down 3-2 Hertl came screaming down the wing put the puck in the only place he could to beat Halak. As a prominent top-six member of the Sharks it’s good to see the second year player score a clutch goal for the team. Hertl is going to be relied upon for years to come and having the ability and composure to score a big goal late in the game is a skill you can’t teach. Road Record
The Sharks have grabbed 5 of a possible six road points to start the season. There’s no downside to that. They needed to start strong and they have. They should be able to put this game in the past and look forward to the next game. After back to back shoot-out games a mental flush is in order as they continue their road swing.
The Sharks got beat by a good Islanders team that is confident, fast and deep. The undefeated streak wasn’t going to last forever and at least it was against a good team.
Next up for the Sharks are the New Jersey Devils on Saturday night, a team off to a surprisingly hot start. I don’t buy that the Devils are for real like the Islanders so it should be a slower game that the Sharks can manage more effectively. The goalie rotation should continue with the Devils on Saturday and Rangers on Sunday. I'm guessing Stalock goes in New Jersey.
Milestone Watch:
Joe Thornton had two assists against the Islanders, bringing his career total to 1199. Saturday night could be the night that Jumbo Joe joins the 1200 point club.
Patrick Marleau had a goal against New York and still sits four assists away from 500.
Brent Burns’ hot start has him on the milestone watch now. Two goals away from 100 for his career, 4 assists from 200 and only six points away from 300.
Thanks for reading.