Sharks and Bruins: Both Struggling with Offensive and Defensive Challenges
San Jose Sharks vs. Boston Bruins: Both Teams Struggling to Find Their Form
In a matchup between two teams underperforming in the 2024-25 NHL season, the San Jose Sharks (14-28-6) face off against the Boston Bruins (22-19-6), both hoping to turn their seasons around. With the Sharks languishing at the bottom of the Pacific Division and the Bruins slipping to fifth place in the Atlantic Division, both teams are desperate to find consistency and momentum to salvage their campaigns.
San Jose Sharks’ Struggles: Offense and Defense Falling Short
The Sharks have been plagued by offensive struggles throughout the season, averaging just 2.54 goals per game, one of the lowest in the league. In their last two games, they’ve scored only two goals total, further highlighting their scoring woes. While forward Macklin Celebrini (a combination of skill and potential), William Eklund, and Mikael Granlund have been the bright spots for the Sharks, combining for 35 goals and 68 assists, the rest of the squad has failed to contribute at a high level. Only six players have scored more than eight goals, leaving the Sharks’ offense top-heavy and predictable.
While their offensive woes are well-documented, the Sharks have not fared much better defensively. Allowing 3.44 goals per game, San Jose’s defense has been porous, giving up eight goals over the last two contests. The pairing of Cody Ceci and Jake Walman has been one of the few defensive bright spots, combining for 11.7 defensive point shares, but the overall unit continues to falter. Opponents consistently find space in front of the net, capitalizing on the Sharks’ inability to close down lanes.
In the crease, goaltender Yaroslav Askarov has been the standout performer, boasting a .917 save percentage and a 2.39 goals-against average on 230 shots. Despite facing relentless pressure, Askarov has managed to stop 3.7 goals above average, providing some hope for a Sharks team struggling to find stability.
Boston Bruins’ Challenges: Offense Underperforming and Defensive Issues
Similarly, the Boston Bruins are experiencing a tough season, particularly in the offensive zone. With an average of just 2.70 goals per game, the Bruins’ attack has been ineffective, even though top players like David Pastrnak, Brad Marchand, and Pavel Zacha have combined for 48 goals and 64 assists. However, much like the Sharks, the rest of the team has been unable to support their offensive leaders. Only six Bruins players have scored more than eight goals, and this lack of depth is becoming increasingly apparent as the season progresses.
On the defensive side, the Bruins are struggling to contain their opponents, allowing 3.17 goals per game. Their defense has been inconsistent, allowing eight goals in the last two games. While Nikita Zadorov and Brandon Carlo have contributed solidly with 11.7 defensive point shares, the rest of the defensive unit has been far from dependable. Opposing teams have been able to exploit the Bruins’ defensive gaps, making it difficult for Boston to establish any sustained control in games.
In goal, Jeremy Swayman has also faced difficulties, posting a .897 save percentage and a 2.94 goals-against average on 963 shots. His struggles are evident in his negative 3.8 goals saved above average, which has exacerbated the Bruins’ defensive issues. Despite his challenges, Swayman’s performance remains crucial to Boston’s hopes of turning things around.
Conclusion
Both teams enter this matchup with glaring issues on both ends of the ice, and the outcome could hinge on which team is able to fix their deficiencies quicker. For San Jose, the key will be finding scoring depth beyond Celebrini, Eklund, and Granlund while tightening up their defensive coverage. Meanwhile, Boston must find a way to improve their goal-scoring production beyond their star trio and reduce the number of defensive breakdowns they’ve been suffering.
Unlock Winning Insights!
As the Sharks and Bruins battle it out, make sure you have the best information at your fingertips. Our data packages provide in-depth analysis and statistics that can help you make informed decisions and increase your chances of winning big this season!
Don’t miss out! Click the button below to explore our data packages and elevate your game strategy today!
