The Sharks are looking to get back on track after dropping their last two games to the Senators and Flames. San Jose scored just a single goal in both of those contests, but could be in a much better position to light the lamp in this matchup. The Kings have been giving up goals left and right all season long. Specifically, the Kings are allowing 3.46 goals per game, which is the 8th-highest mark in the NHL. Neither Darcy Kuemper or Anton Forsberg have been able to find a groove in net, and the LA defensive unit has been giving up far too many Grade A scoring chances. The Sharks have plenty of exciting offensive talent, and should be able to take advantage of the Kings' defensive and goaltending woes.
The Kings could also be at a disadvantage if Adrian Kempe is unable to suit up in this one. Kempe missed Saturday's contest against the Sabres with an undisclosed injury, and his strong 200-foot game would be severely missed if he can't play against San Jose. The Kings are just 4-7-2 on the season, and a measly 1-4-0 at home. So it's not like they've been great even with Kempe in the lineup. Make it a small play, but back the Sharks on the moneyline in this Pacific division showdown.
Sharks vs Kings prediction: Sharks ML (+125) available at time of publishing. Playable to +120.
