Sharks-Flames: Who Shot JR out of a Cannon?

But the Flames' power play (1/3 on the night), almost automatic all series, failed to even register a shot on goal.  Sharks' captain Patrick Marleau, who I have long been critical of because of defensive shortcomings but cannot fault for that in this series once, actually got the best scoring chance during that penalty.

The power play that had climbed to eighth in the league but failed miserably through the first six games finally showed up.  This unit struggled last year also because it passed around the perimeter instead of screening the goaltender and getting shots on net. 

Tonight (2/5) it seemed the adjustment was made, and some of that credit has to go to Wilson as well.

All of this means little if the lessons are not carried to the second round.  Ironically, getting past the first round has been Calgary's problem (0 for 3 since the lockout); the Sharks' trouble has been getting past the second round, not getting to it. 

The Sharks cannot give away games by not showing up for the initial puck drop, or give up leads by trying to coast on their early lead.  They cannot continue to play keep-away with the puck on the power play or let a hit take them away from their game.

If they make any of these mistakes against the Stars, I will be right back to calling for Wilson's job and a shake-up of the team.  If they avoid them, we will be talking about the Stanley Cup run for at least one more series.

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