Sharks first round matchup preview!

The playoffs are nothing new to the San Jose Sharks, as they have only not qualified once since the 2004-2005 NHL lockout.  Last season, they advanced to the Stanley Cup final, where they were defeated by the rolling Crosby machine. This year however, they are yet again cup contenders and have an 8.9% chance of winning the cup. They are facing the Edmonton Oilers, a team that has not made the playoffs in ten seasons, so the experience will definitely be a factor.

Their history this season against the Oilers is definitely unfavorable with a head-to-head record of 2-3.  Though Edmonton has earned two more points in the standings this season, the Sharks on average allow -0.09 fewer goals against per game.  This shows the level of defense that the team is playing.  It will be difficult for the Oilers to overcome it.  Though the fact that both teams are virtually equal in terms of penalty killing, it will be a tough match up. 

Here is the schedule to watch these round one playoff games:

Game 1 – Wednesday, April 12, 10:00 PM @ Oilers

Game 2 –Friday, April 14, 10:30 PM @ Oilers

Game 3 – Sunday, April 16, 10:00 PM vs Oilers

Game 4 – Tuesday, April 18, 10:00 PM vs Oilers

*Game 5 – Thursday, April 20, TBD @ Oilers

*Game 6 – Saturday, April 22, TBD vs Oilers

*Game 7 – Monday, April 24, TBD @ Oilers

We hope that the Sharks’ playoff domination over the years will help them beat an inexperienced Oilers team.