SAN JOSE -– The message was simple. The Sharks wanted to get on top of the Florida Panthers as soon as possible on Thursday night at SAP Center for a few reasons.
Primarily, San Jose had allowed the first goal in four straight games, and six of the last seven. That’s not a good habit to get into. Further, the Panthers were playing the second of a back-to-back on the road, so discouraging a team that may not have had its energy tanks full up would go a long way towards securing two points.
An early edge would also likely help goalie Alex Stalock settle in, after his first two starts did not go the 28-year-old’s way, and he called it a “must win” game for himself after the morning skate.