Last night at the Tank went from a disasterous loss to one of the worst teams in the NHL to a thrilling, come from behind home victory in a matter of 45 minutes. It was a typical home loss M.O. for the Sharks, they were out shooting Toronto 23-17 at the second intermission, we were outhitting them, we were blocking more shots – and the Sharks were losing two-zip. I was getting the text messages. “Sharks are done” “No way Sharks come back tonight” “Terrible loss”. I had little hope, but I reminded my friend to keep in mind how terrible the Leafs are and to not give up hope just yet.

And then…something did change. Craig Rivet, Joe Pavelski and Patrick Marleau all made sure that the Sharks were not heading to Anaheim tonight for another huge showdown with the smell of losing to Toronto wafting behind them (which I think smells like rotting Canadian Bacon laced with Molson and John Candy’s corpse). Did this just happen? I almost hesitate to talk about the recent San Jose upswing at home, with a season high three straight victories, but their improved play at home must be noted. San Jose should be riding an emotional high into Anaheim tonight, who are also on a home winning streak of their own.

I always get excited when an original six team comes to town, especially one that we haven’t seen here in the Bay Area for a few years. This Leafs team is as bad as advertised. Free flowing offensive attack, not much defense and piss-poor special teams. You look at their roster on paper, as I did at the beginning of the season, and think this is a playoff team for sure – but it doesn’t translate on the ice. It made me appreciate what we have here in San Jose even more. So, Sharks fans, when you feel like bitching about Marleau or whining about Ron Wilson’s system, take a look at the Toronto Maple Leafs. Stocked with talent (Sundin, Toskala, Kaberle, Kubina, Tucker, Blake, etc) and their cup runneth over with miserable hockey. Fire Maurice. Fire JFJ. Convince some on your vets to waive their no trades and restock. If the price is right, Mike and I have already said Sundin would be a great fit in Teal, but I just don’t think Doug Wilson is going to make a “big splash” unless it is the perfect deal. I’m looking for him to add two veteran third line players, “Craig Rivet” types at the forward position. Mike and I will identify some of our trade targets for Dougie in the coming week.