Sharks and Kings Have Playoff Feel

By the time the late game started Thursday night, the Sharks had clinched a playoff berth, but they played as though the season was on the line – and for both teams the game could decide playoff position.

The Kings took the lead three times, with the Sharks battling back every time. The Sharks then took their first lead with under eight minutes left in regulation, but the Kings were able to tie up the game and send it into overtime. Scoreless in OT, the Sharks took it in a shootout. I won't miss those next week.

Throughout the figurative battle, there were three literal ones. Drew Doughty got into his first career fight against Joe Thornton. Jumbo Joe used his size advantage well and fed Doughty a series of lefts. Thornton, who fought a few times a season earlier in his career, hadn't had a fight in almost three years.

Ryane Clowe had a pair of fights. His first was against Matt Greene and it came shortly after the Thornton-Doughty fight. His second came in the second period vs Kyle Clifford. Clowe fared well in both bouts and had a goal and an assist: a supersized Gordie Howe Hat Trick. Thornton also picked up a GHHT.