Preview: Kings @ Sharks

Chardougla   3 January 2017

The success of a rivalry, as much as we hate to admit it, depends on the series being at least semi-competitive. Thus Saturday’s loss, as galling as it was, could be viewed by an optimist as simply motivation for tonight’s glorious victory! Sigh, Who am I kidding? Saturday sucked. The Sharks came out flat and uninspired against their arch rival. The good news is that they get the chance to avenge that defeat tonight at the Tank. So let’s take another look at the Kings:

Last 10 games: 4-4-2

The scoop: The Kings finished up a 9 game road trip before Saturday’s victory over our beloved Sharks. After tonight they begin a 7 game homestand. As Irbe stated on Saturday they have been without star* goalie Jonathan Quick and talented forward Tyler Toffoli.

*not actually more than an average goaltender, simply hyped by the media

Why you should hate this team: If I really have to explain this to you, you probably think our biggest rival is the Penguins. Turn in your fan card and pick up your Winter Classic Patrick Kane jersey on the way out, ya filthy bandwagoner!

Exciting Player to Watch: No one, the Kings play boring hockey. Or I guess Drew Doughty, D. He won his first Norris last year, so good for him. He’s ok at hockey I guess.

First Goal Watch: Kevin Gravel, D. The rookie defenseman has only 2 points in his first 24 NHL games, both assists. Prepare yourself for the inevitable.

Meanwhile, in San Jose: The Sharks are going to be shorthanded tonight, as Vlasic is still out after taking a puck to the face against the Flyers. The good news is that DeBoer thinks Vlasic will be able to play Saturday vs Detroit. In addition to Vlasic the Sharks will also be without David Schlemko who has been ruled out with an upper body injury. In his place, Mirco Mueller will be making his first start of the season.

Go Sharks!