In Episode 263 of The Fin Factor, Aaron and Paul break down a defining stretch for the San Jose Sharks as they close out a “November to Remember.” While the month featured some difficult lessons, most notably a crushing 6-0 loss in Colorado, it also showcased a team finding its identity through resilient goaltending and the continued growth of its young superstars.
The Low Point: A Reality Check in Colorado
The Sharks’ 6-0 loss to the Colorado Avalanche served as a sobering reminder of the gap between a rebuilding team and a true contender.
- The “Stop Gap” Era: Paul and Aaron discuss how veterans like John Klingberg and Nick Leddy are essentially stop-gaps who may be moved by the trade deadline, as the team focuses on its long-term defensive future.
- Goaltending Shuffle: Yaroslav Askarov started the game but was pulled after the team “failed him,” letting in multiple quick goals. Alex Nedeljkovic stepped in and made a spectacular glove save on Nathan MacKinnon, though the game was already well out of reach.
The Bounce Back: Resilience in Vancouver
The Sharks proved they are a different team this year by immediately responding with a gritty 3-2 win against the Vancouver Canucks.
- Klingberg’s Statement: After being scratched against Colorado, John Klingberg returned with one of his strongest games of the season, a performance the hosts called the blueprint for how he can stay in the lineup.
- The “Sleeper” Impact: Adam Gaudette continues to be a vital depth piece, netting the game-winning goal and showing the kind of two-way reliability that the Sharks have lacked in previous seasons.
Goaltending Excellence: The Askarov Factor
November was the month where Yaroslav Askarov cemented himself as the “real deal”.
- The Stats: Askarov finished the month with a .947 save percentage (third in the league) and an 8-2 record.
- The Character: Beyond his play, the hosts highlighted Askarov’s infectious personality, from “taking over” post-game interviews to his signature celebratory skates.
Rookie Watch: Celebrini, Smith, and Chernyshov
The future of the franchise was on full display throughout the episode:
- Macklin Celebrini: Continues to pace with all-time greats, reaching offensive milestones as a teenager that haven’t been seen in decades.
- Will Smith: After a slow start to his rookie campaign, Smith is showing more confidence in “attacking the defender” and using his elite shot rather than always looking for the pass.
- Igor Chernyshov: Currently lighting up the AHL, Chernyshov is trending toward a call-up. The hosts noted his rare combination of high-volume shooting and playmaking patience.
Members Swag & Community
To wrap up the show, Aaron and Paul shared some of the exclusive “bag tags” and “shoe charms” provided by the Sharks organization. These items, featuring Celebrini, Smith, and Eklund, will be given away to the show’s loyal YouTube members as a thank you for their continued support.
