Sharks Rally but Fall Short Against Kings in 4-3 Defeat

The San Jose Sharks staged a remarkable comeback on March 12, 2024, but ultimately fell to the Los Angeles Kings 4-3 at home. Despite outshooting the Kings 41-14, the Sharks struggled to secure critical saves from their goaltender, Yaroslav Askarov, who faced challenges in key moments of the game.

Trailing by three goals at one point, the Sharks fought back with a goal from Alexander Wennberg at 4:48 in the third period, leveling the score at 3-3. This goal capped a spirited effort after the Sharks were dominated early in the match. However, with just 6:40 remaining in regulation, Kings defenseman Brandt Clarke delivered a decisive snap shot from 35 feet, regaining the lead for Los Angeles and sealing the Sharks’ fate.

The Kings took control early in the game, with Jeff Malott and Drew Doughty scoring in the second period, extending their lead to 3-0. Malott opened the scoring at 3:21 with a wrist shot during an odd-man rush. Doughty followed suit at 6:43, firing a shot past a screened Askarov for his first goal of the season.

Despite the daunting deficit, the Sharks responded with tenacity. Macklin Celebrini provided a crucial assist on a goal by Philipp Kurashev at 17:26 in the second period, bringing the score to 3-2. Celebrini’s effort marked his fifth consecutive game with points, while William Eklund extended his own streak to four games with an assist.

Askarov, making his third consecutive start, had previously stopped 54 of 61 shots in earlier games. He entered Tuesday’s matchup with a record of 1-3-1 and a save percentage of .855, reflecting the Sharks’ ongoing struggles. The team has now lost five straight games at home, a streak that began at the end of last season, and they remain one of only two teams in the NHL yet to win a home game this season.

In the first period, the Sharks found themselves behind early after successfully killing a penalty. Kings winger Collin Graf redirected a shot that hit the left post and bounced off Askarov, allowing Corey Perry to score his third goal of the season at 10:54.

As the Sharks continue to seek improvements on home ice, they will aim to break their losing streak in upcoming matches, hoping to capitalize on their offensive momentum despite the recent setbacks.