BREAKING: The San Jose Sharks suffered a crushing 4-2 loss to the Seattle Kraken on Saturday, closing their three-game homestand on a disappointing note at SAP Center. With a sold-out crowd of 17,435 in attendance, the Sharks lost their grip on the game just minutes into the third period, allowing two quick goals in a span of just 2:30.
The Sharks held a 2-1 lead early in the third, but a shot from Ryker Evans found its way past a screened Yaroslav Askarov to equalize just 1:55 into the period. Moments later, the Kraken surged ahead as Ryan Lindgren netted his first goal of the season, slipping a shot past Askarov to make it 3-2 with 15:33 remaining in the game.
Despite several attempts to equalize, the Sharks fell short, missing a critical opportunity against a Kraken team that had only one win in its last 11 games and entered the match at the bottom of the Pacific Division. The loss marked the Sharks’ third defeat in their last six games, concluding their homestand with a 1-2-0 record.
The Kraken opened the scoring early in the second period when Eeli Tolvanen capitalized on a defensive miscommunication, netting the first goal at 6:52. The Sharks responded with a power-play goal from Adam Gaudette, tying the game at 11:22 in the second. Gaudette’s eighth goal of the season was assisted by Macklin Celebrini and Igor Chernyshov, marking Chernyshov’s third assist in three NHL games.
Askarov stood strong in net, finishing with 28 saves, including crucial stops during a Kraken power play. The Sharks must regroup quickly as they prepare to face the Vegas Golden Knights on the road this Tuesday, December 26, before heading to Vancouver to take on the Canucks next Saturday.
The Sharks’ last chance to gain momentum before the Christmas break looms large, as they aim to bounce back from this disappointing defeat. Fans are left questioning if the team can turn things around in time for the upcoming challenges.
