The Sharks’ loss in Game 6 stems from an inability to clear the puck from their own zone, as well as the paint in front of Martin Jones. The defense is to blame for this, but Martin Jones really needs to just do what he did in Game 5 and rest easy knowing that if he does, the Sharks will most likely move forward, which is something they should have done a while ago. They keep choking away games, but don’t expect it to happen in Game 7.
The Predators offense deserves credit for finding chances to score and converting. They got some lucky bounces, like on the first goal, but for the most part they won battles and got creative. But it’s a reminder that the Predators only win close games. The Sharks, if able to find a way to abuse the Predators defensively, will win. Because the Predators offense can get creative, but they can’t score boatloads of goals like the Sharks can if they put their minds to it.
The Predators defense also deserves some credit. They are doing the things the Sharks defense needs to do, but the Sharks are able to find ways to score from outside and from the point. The Predators continue to be able to clear the paint, clear their own zone, and move the puck through the neutral zone. Where the three goals came from was an out of position Pekka Rinne. When he was in position and upright, he was stopping shots. If he continues this, then the Sharks may be out of luck, unless Martin Jones matches him stop for stop. The Sharks will be able to outshoot the Predators. It’s all about whether the goaltenders will be able to make the same amount of saves.
The Sharks have created a pattern of starting fast. Unfortunately last night they weren’t able to continue it throughout the whole game. If they find a way to do, as shown in Game 5, Game 7 is theirs for the taking.
Nashville already has a Game 7 win under their belt this post-season. The Sharks were able to handily defeat the Kings, and only went to Game 5 last series. Their history of Game 7s is not great. But DeBoer is new to the organization, and he may be able to find a way to win in sudden death.