In Episode 198 of The Fin Factor, Paul and Aaron discuss a rare moment of celebration for the San Jose Sharks: a shootout victory over the LA Kings and the long-awaited return of their captain, Logan Couture.
Logan Couture’s Return and Immediate Impact
The return of Logan Couture after a long injury absence was the central theme of the episode.
- Leading by Example: Couture played his first game of the week, immediately solidifying the team’s defensive core and leading by example as the “captain that’s actually playing”.
- Key Plays: In his first game back, Couture recorded a “beautiful” pass for an assist and later scored in the shootout against the Kings.
- Center Depth: His return, along with Nico Sturm’s, helped solidify the center position, though the team lost Mikael Granlund to injury shortly after.
The Shootout Win Against the LA Kings
The hosts recapped the “magnificent” ending to the game against the Kings, which the Sharks won in a shootout.
- Riddick’s Meltdown: Paul highlighted his joy at seeing Kings goalie David Riddick “obliterate his stick” on the goal post after failing to make a single save in the shootout against Fabian Zetterlund and Logan Couture.
- Standout Performances: Justin Bailey and Fabian Zetterlund both scored during regulation, with Zetterlund notably tying Tomas Hertl for the most goals on the team at that point.
- Defensive Grit: Despite an ankle injury that forced Mario Ferraro to leave the game, the hosts praised the “hard-working mentality” of players like Ferraro, Nico Sturm, and Justin Bailey.
Trade Assets and Rebuild Progress
The hosts discussed the long-term value of the assets acquired in the Timo Meier trade, which are now beginning to yield results.
- Fabian Zetterlund: Only 24 years old and an RFA after next season, Zetterlund is viewed as a key part of the rebuilding process rather than just a “kickoff” asset.
- Quentin Musty: Drafted with the 26th overall pick acquired in the Meier trade, Musty is described as a potential “steal” who is currently “going off” in the OHL.
Other Team News
- Joe Thornton Retirement: The Sharks announced they will retire Joe Thornton’s number 19 next season, placing it in the rafters alongside Patrick Marleau’s number 12.
- The “Cookie Bet”: The hosts reminded viewers of a bet with a fan named Debbie: if the Sharks win three games in a row, she will bring them cookies.
