San Jose Sharks and Los Angeles Kings lock horns once again - NHL Preview
San Jose Sharks and Los Angeles Kings face off in a match that could potentially decide the winner of the Southeast division title and home ice advantage through the playoffs on Saturday, April 7, 2012.
Both teams have recently struggled for wins in particular the Sharks who just about managed to secure a playoff berth and both playoff rivals will be going all out for victory in a huge game.
The Kings are seventh in the Western Conference with 94-points after being displaced from third by the Phoenix Coyotes who are a point ahead.
The Sharks just managed to secure eighth place after seeing off the challenge from Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche and are tied on points with the Kings at eighth.
Both these two rivals faced each other last time out in a heart pounding encounter and fans can expect to witness another cracking event at the HP Pavilion.
Sharks (42-29-10, 94 pts)
Just managing to secure a playoff place, San Jose has met its target and will now look to do its best to secure a division title even though chances remain slim given the Phoenix Coyotes great form.
The Sharks won out their last encounter on Thursday against the Los Angeles Kings 6-5 after a shootout as both teams did not hold back in any manner.
Sharks defenseman Dan Boyle was ecstatic with his team’s comeback victory which helped them secure the playoff spot and said after the game.
"That was a crazy game, man. Down 3-1, we battled back. They got another one. We took the lead. It was a pretty entertaining game for the fans, and it was a hard-fought win. We showed a lot of character."
Kings (40-27-14, 94 pts)
The Los Angeles Kings were furious with their defeat at the hands of the Sharks who they accused of cheating their way.
Ryane Clowe blatantly cheated the Kings out of victory after he used his stick from the bench to push away the puck from an on rushing Kings player leading to a furious response from Kings fans and players.
Kings defenseman Drew Doughty said after the game.
"I don't see why he shouldn't (get suspended. To me, that's like a guy running down the football field and a guy comes out and tackles him to keep him from getting a touchdown. I don't see how this is any different.”
The officials gave nothing and that led to more anger from Los Angeles.
They will be looking for sweet revenge this time.
Predictions
Los Angeles will be favourites for the win.
Sum of goals will be more than six.
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