San Jose Sharks vs Winnipeg Jets Prediction, Odds and Picks for Today, 04/16/26

The San Jose Sharks and Winnipeg Jets are set to close out the 2025-26 NHL regular season on Thursday night in Winnipeg. Both the Sharks and Jets missed the playoffs this season, which means neither team has much to play for in this contest. However, despite there not being much at stake, this could still be a fast-paced, high-scoring, and entertaining matchup to watch unfold. The Sharks were pushing for a playoff spot through the second half of the season, and while they ultimately fizzled down the stretch, their young core of players have a bright future. Macklin Celebrini has already proven he’s among the best players in the NHL, and Will Smith has been a great complement to Celebrini’s game on San Jose’s top line. Winnipeg goaltender Connor Hellebuyck owns a save percentage below .900 on the season and has allowed 11 total goals in his last 2 outings. The Sharks should be able to give him some trouble.

As exciting as San Jose’s offensive core is, the Sharks have been among the worst defensive teams in the NHL this season. They are allowing 3.55 goals per game on the year, which is the 3rd-highest mark in the league. They give up way too many Grade A scoring chances, and their team save percentage of .887 is less-than-ideal. The Sharks are also playing on the second half of a back-to-back, so fatigue could be an issue in the defensive zone. Furthermore, both penalty kill units in this matchup rank in the bottom-third of the league. Make it a small play, but taking the over of 6.5 with odds of +115 or better is the play here.

Sharks vs Jets prediction: Over 6.5 (+115) available at time of publishing. Playable at that number.