SAN JOSE — The Sharks have faced one team after another in recent weeks that are either out of the playoff picture or still fighting for a spot.
That changes Sunday as they face a Minnesota Wild team that has the same expectations as they do of competing for the Stanley Cup late into the spring.
If the Sharks, who have won three straight, have hopes of defending their Western Conference title, they might have to get by the Wild, which, at 41-15-6, is on pace for its best season in franchise history.
“I like our effort the last couple games.