With the NHL’s Global Series in Prague concluded, let’s revisit four big-picture topics surrounding the Sharks after their first two showings against the Nashville Predators.
The process begins
We realize a whole season’s fate would never be decided in just the first two games, but the Sharks' inability to return home with at least a split wasn’t the optimal kickoff. It would have been a nice foundation to the greatly anticipated “fresh slate” for this group.
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That established: Last season began with a four-game win streak, the longest of the campaign, and still didn’t turn out in any memorable fashion.
A reminder, this is a process for the entire franchise, and it will only matter how things finish this season, not where they started.
Kunin's hot start
Luke Kunin begins his Sharks career on a two-game point streak. This was especially meaningful having an assist in the opener, and a goal in the rematch against his former team.
For the Sharks, Kunin had been a hot hand in preseason, and would be a huge benefit if he can add some depth scoring to new coach David Quinn’s lineup. Getting regular contributions outside of Logan Couture, Timo Meier, and Tomas Hertl is a large part of what will help San Jose take the next steps.
Flawless penalty kill
The Sharks’ penalty kill was perfect in two games. That continues a trend set by last year’s group, which ranked second in the league shorthanded, clicking at an 85-percent success rate.
San Jose Sharks
It may not be a flashy conversation piece, but San Jose’s ability to manage these PK situations kept them in games last year, and also sets a high bar for what the Sharks will need to do this season in staying competitive.
Homecoming
What comes next is a full five days with no games. Mixed with a long Atlantic crossing, some body clock adjustments, and a few good practice sessions in San Jose. In reality, once Friday rolls around with the Carolina Hurricanes visiting SAP Center, it will feel like the season started all over again.
The energy of a true home crowd, including some more butterflies, and re-establishing home game day routines from the very start. This is no different than when the Sharks returned home from Sweden in 2010.
Make no mistake, it does take a toll to spend a week 6,000 miles away, but the legs will be fresh on Friday, and it should offer new optimism about the 80 games remaining.