San Jose, which missed the playoffs last season for the first time since 2002-03, clinched its postseason berth with a 5-2 win against the Los Angeles Kings on March 28.
Since Jan. 9, the Sharks 27 wins are tied for second in the NHL behind the Pittsburgh Penguins 28, their 58 points are second to the Penguins' 59, and their 131 goals are third.
Led by coach Peter DeBoer, Hart Trophy candidate Joe Thornton and Norris Trophy contender Brent Burns, the Sharks' mission is far from complete. Two years ago, they blew a 3-0 series lead against the Kings in the Western Conference First Round, and they haven't been past the second round since 2011 and have never played in the Stanley Cup Final.