2015-16 record: 46-30-6 (98 points)
Lost to Pittsburgh in Stanley Cup Final
Captain: Joe Pavelski
A year ago this time, the San Jose Sharks were being criticized for sticking with Doug Wilson as General Manager and hiring Pete DeBoer, he of two failed coaching stints in Florida and New Jersey, as head coach. This season, it is now all about taking that final step, as the Sharks made their first Stanley Cup Final in franchise history, but fell short in the end. Many key players return, with a couple of players hoping to make an impact.
Up front, it's the Joes, as Thornton and Pavelski led the team offense. Whereas the elder Joe was thought to be on his last legs, DeBoer's decision to include Thornton in the leadership role despite the actual captain role going to Pavelski may have been one of his moves, as Thornton was tied for fourth in league scoring. Scoring depth was big, as Logan Couture led the team in playoff scoring, and it only figures to get better, as Mikkel Boedker joins the team. Brent Burns is not only the team's best option on the blue line, but he's also been versatile enough to play up front. Given the depth on the back end, however, he may be needed there, as the Sharks aren't as good depth-wise. David Schlemko only merely offsets the loss of Roman Polak, though Mirco Mueller may be ready after an AHL refresher. In goal is where things get interesting, as Martin Jones may be backed up by Aaron Dell, who has only played as high as the AHL level for about a year. Jones proved his worth after coming over last off-season, but if he goes down for an extended period of time, things may get a little dicey here. The power play was really good, as they finished 3rd, and it only figures to be just as good with Boedker joining the forward ranks. The penalty kill could use some work though, as it was rather mediocre. Another year in DeBoer's system could help, as the Sharks were getting used to the coaching styles.
Prediction: 1st in the Pacific Division
The Sharks will have a tough act to follow, as their first Stanley Cup Finals appearance raises expectations. Much of the same cast returns, and with a little more speed, the Sharks could be back again. Then again, if something happens to Jones, it could be a problem.
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