Shark Bites

The San Jose Sharks shed the label of underachievers in the playoffs with their second straight appearance in the Conference Finals last year.  Now, the next step has to be the Stanley Cup Finals.  The central figure in the Sharks' hopes is Joe Thornton, the captain.  He shed his own underachiever's label last year, playing hurt yet producing in the playoffs.  He will be asked to continue leading the way for the Sharks.  Martin Havlat was acquired for his speed and penchant for producing in the clutch.  He's never been the superstar that some have expected him to be, but he is a good player who should feel more comfortable in San Jose.  Another off-season acquisition that should help is Brent Burns.  Too often, the Sharks had Dan Boyle providing blue line help on the offense and no one else.  Burns will help ease the burden and should at least, be good for 15 goals.

Prediction: 2nd in West

Movie: Jaws

What else do you expect?