Joe Thornton wants to make one thing perfectly clear: It’s not 2014 anymore.
That’s welcome news for the Sharks and their fans, both of whom are still trying to erase the memory of San Jose blowing a 3-0 series lead in the opening round of the NHL playoffs.
“You don’t really think about it; it’s two years ago,” Thornton said. “A lot has happened in two years. This is 2016: Sharks against Kings.”
There are similarities, however: The teams meet again in the first round and Los Angeles again has the home-ice advantage; Game 1 is at 7:30 p.