Some random thoughts before the weekend...

The Sharks just finished up a solid 4-2 victory over the much improved LA Kings. It was the second straight game in which the opposing team tried to "out muscle" the Sharks, and was the second straight game in which the Sharks persevered and were rewarded. A few things come to mind after watching these back-to-back 4-2 wins over the Oilers and Kings, respectively.

1) Head Coach Todd McLellan moved Patrick Marleau to the third line because of injuries down the middle. The move breaks up the nearly unstoppable top line of Thornton, Patty, and Devin Setoguchi. At first glance, this could be seen as an expected drop-off in the offensive department. But, especially after the last two games, I believe this move actually strengthens the Sharks overall attack. Imagine now that a team has to worry about Jumbo Joe's line, the terribly consistent second line, and now, a third line that has lit the lamp multiple times in the past two games. That's three legitimate scoring lines, something that is nearly impossible for opposing teams to defend. Imagine the headaches coaches must be dealing with trying to draw up match ups for these three lines. I like what I am seeing.

2) With Jody Shelley out of the lineup, teams seem to be attempting to bully the Sharks. Newsflash for all the other teams in the league, these are not the same Sharks that were bullied out of the playoffs in the past. The last two nights, the Sharks have faced very physical teams and have come out with strong showings and victories. I actually believe that with Shelley out, it forces the rest of the Sharks to step up the physicality and defend themselves and their teammates. This is a great character builder for the Sharks as they head into the final two months of the year. All the players must be ready to hit and get hit and they all seem to be accepting the challenge with open arms (or fists). Vlasic and Michalek seem to be stepping up their physical games and this excites me more than the old Jessica Simpson in daisy dukes. Gone are the days in which a team can simply throw their weight around with team teal. Shelley or no Shelley, this team doesn't take crap from anyone, any longer.

We will see if any of the six injured players return for Saturday's matinee against the Atlanta Thrashers. My guess is that JR and Lukowich return, but who knows. It's tough not to overlook the game Saturday, but there is a brutal road trip looming and the Sharks need to hit it in stride.

In closing, kudos to Claude Lemieux for tallying his first point since 2003 when he got on the scoreboard against, who else, the Sharks. I like to see a player who set his heart on making a comeback get a point. Also, good job Kaspar. Trying to make the most of his opportunity on Thornton's line. This is a very deep roster and all this experience and all these injuries could actually be a blessing in disguise come playoff time.

Until later, have a good weekend everyone and don't forget to spay and neuter your pets?

BRG