The Sharks won't have Joe Thornton on Tuesday night as he serves a one-game suspension in Game 4 against the Vegas Golden Knights, leaving a hole in the middle of San Jose’s lineup.
Trailing 2-1 in the best-of-seven Stanley Cup playoff series, San Jose needs to win in order to avoid facing elimination headed into Game 5 on Thursday. The Sharks have a replacement waiting in the wings -- pun intended -- but Thornton's absence because of his illegal hit to the head in Game 3 undoubtedly will be an obstacle.
Through three playoff games, Thornton (one goal, two assists) is tied for third on the team in points, and ranks second in primary points (three).