It will be Ortmeyer's first game back in New York since signing with Nashville in 2007. Since then he tore up his knee, went through blood clots again, spent some time in the AHL (with Milwaukee, who suck because they wouldn't let me buy a game-used jersey because I couldn't go to their season-ending sale in person) and signed with San Jose. He has just one point (that goal I mentioned) in eight games but is seeing 13 or so minutes of ice time.
If that isn't enough to get you excited - and I don't see how it couldn't be - here is a regular Peepin' Foes.
Where We Are: Flying. Seven wins in a row certainly adds some confidence to the crew and the ship seems headed in the right direction. Granted, two wins were against the Leafs, but wins are wins and points add up.
Where They Are: San Jose is 4-3-1. After losing to the Caps last Thursday, they bounced back with a win over the Isles. Good for them! Everyone should be able to nurse their wounds with wins over them. Who To Watch For: Much like MDZ in Toronto, young Ryan Vesce grew up a Ranger fan so he will be looking to step up his game - and he managed to stick it to the Isles with a goal to boot. Oh, and there is Joe Thornton, Dany Heatley, a revitalized Patrick Marleau, Devin Setoguchi and two of the better defensemen in the game in Dan Boyle and Rob Blake. But that's about it. Oh no, I forgot Nabby. Yeah, their goalie is kinda good too.
What To Watch For: The Rangers discipline. San Jose's power play has been ever bit as good as ours (who would have thought I would ever say that in a positive way?) so the Blueshirts have to stay out of the box. The Sharks are dominant in the faceoff circle, in no small part due to the addition of Manny Malhotra.
What We'll (Hopefully) See: Jed to get a warm welcome. The Rangers to be able to run with the Sharks. Marian Gaborik to outshine Heatley. Donald Brashear vs. Jody Shelley (who will hopefully use his fists and not his writing skills). And Chris Higgins to score a damned goal already.
Also Check Out: SBN's Fear The Fin, The Chum Bucket, the almighty Mike Chen and the Mercury News' Working The Corners.
Peepin' Foes: San Jose Sharks - Navigating the Waters of NHL Dominance
In the dynamic world of professional ice hockey, the San Jose Sharks have carved out a unique identity as formidable competitors in the National Hockey League (NHL). Known for their tenacity, skilled players, and dedicated fan base, the Sharks have left an indelible mark on the sport. In this article, we will embark on a deep dive into the world of the San Jose Sharks, exploring their history, notable players, memorable moments, and addressing frequently asked questions (FAQs) that offer insights into the team's enduring legacy.
San Jose Sharks: A Brief History
Founding and Early Years
The San Jose Sharks were established as an NHL expansion team in 1991, becoming the first major professional sports team in San Jose, California. The team's distinctive logo, featuring a menacing shark, quickly became an iconic symbol.
Building a Competitive Team
In their early years, the Sharks worked diligently to build a competitive roster. The acquisition of skilled players and strategic coaching decisions paved the way for the team's success.
The Sharks' Legacy
The San Jose Sharks' legacy is defined by their consistent presence in the playoffs and their reputation as perennial contenders. They have achieved sustained success, earning a place of respect in the NHL.
Key Figures in Sharks History
Throughout their history, the San Jose Sharks have been home to several key figures who have made significant contributions to the franchise:
Joe Thornton: Often referred to as "Jumbo Joe," Joe Thornton was a linchpin of the Sharks' success for over a decade. His exceptional playmaking ability and leadership left an indelible mark on the team.
Patrick Marleau: Patrick Marleau, another Sharks legend, spent the majority of his career with the team. His longevity, goal-scoring prowess, and dedication to the franchise earned him a special place in Sharks history.
Brent Burns: Known for his distinctive beard and dynamic style of play, Brent Burns has been a standout defenseman for the Sharks. His offensive contributions from the blue line have been instrumental to the team's success.
Memorable Moments in Sharks History
The San Jose Sharks have had their share of unforgettable moments that have solidified their place in NHL history:
First Stanley Cup Final: In the 2015-2016 season, the Sharks made their first-ever appearance in the Stanley Cup Final, capturing the hearts of fans and marking a significant milestone in the team's history.
Comebacks and Overtime Thrillers: The Sharks are known for their ability to stage dramatic comebacks and win thrilling overtime games, creating lasting memories for their supporters.
Joe Thornton's Milestones: Milestones in Joe Thornton's career, such as reaching the 1,000-assist mark, have been celebrated by fans and showcased his exceptional talent.
Peepin' Foes: The San Jose Sharks
Style of Play
The San Jose Sharks are recognized for their aggressive and offensive style of play. They prioritize puck possession, fast-paced gameplay, and a strong power play, often keeping opponents on their heels.
Recent Performances and Challenges
In recent years, the Sharks have faced challenges and transitions, including changes in coaching staff and the development of young talent. They continue to work toward returning to the elite ranks of the NHL.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As the San Jose Sharks continue their journey in the NHL, questions about the team often arise. Here are some FAQs about the San Jose Sharks:
1. What is the significance of the "Shark Tank"?
The "Shark Tank" is the colloquial name for the SAP Center at San Jose, the home arena of the Sharks. It's known for its passionate fan base and electric atmosphere during games.
2. How have the Sharks maintained their competitive edge over the years?
The Sharks have maintained their competitiveness through a combination of strong leadership, strategic acquisitions, player development, and a commitment to their style of play.
3. What are the Sharks' prospects for future success?
The Sharks are in a rebuilding phase, focusing on developing young talent while maintaining their competitive spirit. The future success of the team will depend on the continued growth of their young stars.
4. How has the Sharks' fan base contributed to the team's identity?
The Sharks' fan base, known as the "Shark Tank Faithful," is passionate and dedicated. They create a lively atmosphere at home games and provide unwavering support to the team.
5. What role has the Sharks Foundation played in the community?
The Sharks Foundation is the charitable arm of the team and is dedicated to enhancing the lives of underserved youth and families in the San Jose area. The foundation's initiatives include supporting education, health, and community service programs.
The San Jose Sharks, with their distinctive style of play, dedicated fan base, and legacy of success, continue to make waves in the NHL. While they may not always grab the headlines, their consistent presence in the playoffs and commitment to their brand of hockey have earned them the respect of fans and opponents alike.
In the heart of San Jose, the Sharks continue to pursue their goal of capturing the elusive Stanley Cup, leaving an indelible mark on the NHL landscape. Their journey serves as a reminder that in the world of sports, success is often a result of perseverance, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of greatness.
No comments:
Post a Comment