In Episode 256 of The Fin Factor, Aaron and Guest Host Devereux Boxton (sitting in for Paul) dive into a frustratingly close start to the season for the San Jose Sharks. The episode focuses on “what could have been” during the team’s home opener and the subsequent loss to the Anaheim Ducks.
“Misery in OT”: Blowing Late Leads
The “misery” refers to the Sharks holding late leads in their first two games of the season, only to lose both in overtime or a shootout.+1
- Vegas Golden Knights: The Sharks were leading 3-2 with less than a minute remaining. After Macklin Celebrini missed an empty net, Jack Eichel scored on a “fluky bounce” that caught Alex Nedeljkovic out of position.
- Anaheim Ducks: Similarly, the Sharks held a 4-1 lead in their second game but “blew it,” eventually losing in overtime.
- Statistical Reality: The hosts point out that the Sharks are currently dead last in the NHL for offensive zone time-on-ice at 36.2%.
“Dickinson Debut”: A Solid Start
High-end defensive prospect Sam Dickinson made his much-anticipated NHL debut.
- First Impressions: The hosts praised Dickinson for looking “comfortable” and noted that he didn’t look like a rookie on the ice.
- Physical Play: He showed a willingness to use his size, lowering his shoulder to drive to the net.
- Developmental Notes: While impressive, the coaching staff noted he is still “trying too hard” to avoid mistakes, which sometimes leads to overthinking his play.
“Plattner Speaks”: The Owner’s Vision
Sharks owner Hasso Plattner gave a rare interview, offering insight into the team’s long-term strategy.
- Patience is Key: Plattner emphasized that the team should not be “pushed too hard” this year, noting the extreme youth of the roster, some of whom “are only allowed to drink a beer in Germany”.
- The 2025-26 Outlook: He predicted the Sharks would be “close” to a playoff spot next season once Dickinson is fully engaged and Michael Misa joins the roster.
- Misa vs. Celebrini: Plattner notably described Misa as “Celebrini lite,” suggesting he expects Misa to be on a similar developmental level as the first-overall pick.
The “Sleepover” Bobbleheads
The episode kicked off with a showcase of the “Sleepover” bobbleheads, a giveaway commemorating the viral photo of Macklin Celebrini, Will Smith, and Tyler Toffoli. The story behind the bauble is that Toffoli had a “rollaway bed” in Smith and Celebrini’s room after all three scored in the same game, fulfilling a preseason bet.
