Sharks Suffer Costly Turnover, Fall 6-3 to Mammoth; Remain Winless

URGENT UPDATE: The San Jose Sharks are still searching for their first win of the season following a devastating 6-3 loss to the Utah Mammoth at Delta Center on October 18, 2025. A critical turnover by goalie Yaroslav Askarov late in the second period allowed Liam O’Brien to score, shifting the momentum back to the Mammoth, who dominated the game.

The Sharks initially fought back from a 2-0 deficit with goals from Tyler Toffoli and Jeff Skinner in the second period. However, Askarov’s misstep, where he mishandled the puck behind his net, proved costly. O’Brien capitalized, scoring his first goal since April 17, 2014, putting the Mammoth ahead once again.

Askarov ended the game with 28 saves, but the Sharks’ defense faltered throughout the match. Nick Schmaltz scored a hat trick for the Mammoth, sealing the Sharks’ fate as they fell to 0-3-1 this season.

With only 16:51 left in the third period, Macklin Celebrini managed to score for the Sharks, but it was too little, too late. The Sharks remain the only winless team in the NHL, desperately needing a turnaround as they prepare to host the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday at SAP Center.

The Sharks’ power play saw success with Toffoli’s goal, his second of the season, coming from a rebound on a shot by Dmitry Orlov. Skinner’s goal followed quickly, showcasing the Sharks’ potential but ultimately failing to maintain pressure against the Mammoth.

Askarov, making his second start this season, was looking to redeem himself after a previous 7-6 loss to the Anaheim Ducks on October 11, where he made 37 saves. With the Penguins coming up next, the Sharks will likely turn to goalie Alex Nedeljkovic to break their losing streak.

The Sharks need an urgent response as the pressure mounts with every game. Fans are anxious for a win, and Saturday’s matchup against the Penguins will be crucial for the team’s morale and standing in the league. Stay tuned for updates as the Sharks aim to turn their luck around.