SAN JOSE – Overcoming one mental mistake that leads to a goal-against is hard enough in today’s NHL. When it’s two, it’s nearly impossible.
The Sharks, though, practically did find a way to beat Ottawa on Monday at SAP Center, outshooting the Senators 35-17 and dominating for long stretches. But misplays by goalie Alex Stalock early and Brent Burns late allowed the Sens to push the game into a shootout where they eventually claimed the extra point in a shootout, 4-3.
Burns decision to be a little too aggressive on a late Sharks power play while they were ahead 3-2 was the key blunder.