What an amazing game last night.  Just as much, if not more, intensity as the tough, hard fought Calgary game on Thursday (and by the way, thanks for not broadcasting the first period of that game in HD, DirecTV.  Jerks).  Plus, this game had a dizzying number of goals and lead changes.  It’s as close to a playoff feel as you can get in the regular season.

And, miracle of miracles, without two of their starting six defensemen, the Sharks managed to pull it out 6-4 6-5.  Let’s be serious- it wasn’t a game the Sharks had to win.  They would have dropped behind Detroit and Boston in the overall NHL standings, but the Sharks would have to go on a skid of Met-like proportions to fall out of the playoff picture.  Of course, it certainly was much more than an ordinary January regular season game.  After missing their comeuppance on Calgary by two posts, the Sharks didn’t want to miss their chance against the current champs.

I’m glad the Sharks had more stomach than I did.  After the Wings gained the lead two different times, each time I felt that sinking feeling, and each time the Sharks battled back.  The Tank hasn’t been that loud since last year’s playoffs.  With Jumbo Joe held off the scoresheet, Marleau and the second line stepped up.  Pavelski and Cheech got off the schneid.  Michalek showed his power and speed to score the go-ahead in the 3rd.  And Nabby, while far from perfect, made several fantastic saves at crucial moments.  Even Semenov played pretty well.

It’s gonna be hard to recapture that kind of intensity again this regular season, but the statement was made- the Sharks, with or without key players, still have the sand to beat the best.

And by the way, I haven’t mentioned this in a while, but the Sharks call-in radio show is tonight from 9-10pm on KDOW 1220AM.  The internet stream is the best way to listen.  Please call in to 1-800-512-1220 with your takes on the Calgary and Detroit games, I know we’ll have lots to discuss.