Los Angeles Kings vs. San Jose Sharks: Game Preview, Prediction

Los Angeles Kings (20-14-12) vs. San Jose Sharks (24-17-6)

Game Time: Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2015, 10:30 p.m. ET

Players to Watch:

San Jose: D Brent Burns, C Joe Pavelski

Los Angeles: RW Marian Gaborik, C Jeff Carter

Southern California meets Northern California as the two squads look to wrap up their pre-All-Star portion of the schedule with the win. Despite a pair of really talented rosters, both the Kings and Sharks have really underachieved so far this year, and in a tough as nails Western Conference, a less than stellar stretch of play could be the difference between making the playoffs and watching from home.

As of right now the Sharks are barely holding on to a playoff spot, despite being the only team in the league in a playoff position with a negative goal differential. I really think the proverbial other shoe is going to drop in San Jose over the next few weeks, and a loss at home to a staggering Kings team could be what sets the wheels in motion for a collapse. Former Wisconsin Badger Joe Pavelski will need to be at his best and generating scoring chances against a stingy Kings defense to make life easier for the Sharks. San Jose’s defense is led by NHL All-Star Brent Burns, and the massive former forward will need to match the physicality of the Kings to thwart L.A.’s scoring chances. It would also be beneficial for Burns to generate some chances himself and keep the Kings back on their heels whenever possible.

The Kings are currently on the outside looking into a playoff spot and have been unable to finish a few close games in the past week. The Kings have dropped back-to-back games in overtime to the division rival Anaheim Ducks and Calgary Flames, and leaving points on the board like that against tough Pacific Division teams is a recipe for disaster. Look for Marian Gaborik’s speed to be on display as he looks to keep up his solid pace that’s seen him net five points in his last five games. On the flip side of the coin, Jeff Carter has been held to two assists in that same stretch and will need to step up his productivity to help salvage the Kings’ season.

Final Prediction: Los Angeles 4, San Jose 2