Mike and Doug wrap up the games that happened in the past week- a little up and down for the Sharks, although they remain on top of the NHL in points.  The Dudes spend some time on the Chicago Blackhawks, who have several injuries, and talk about the rumors surrounding their big three free agents- Toews, Kane, and Keith.  Then they bring up the fact that the Sharks have done a lot of shipping players to the minors, much more than any other Pacific division team.  Finally, Mike and Doug pick their biggest surprises and disappointments now that the season is a quarter over.

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Jeremey Roenick waives to the crowd before the Sharks 4-3 OT loss in Chicago

The Sharks tangled with one of the most dangerous teams in the NHL last night when they swam into Chicago and tangled with the early Central Division leaders. This game featured some of the best young talent in the NHL on both sides plus a collection of the best skill players in the Western Conference. It was an extremely entertaining game and a fitting tribute to one of the most exciting players the NHL has ever seen in JR. As a tribute to their former teammate, the San Jose Sharks reached back into their old bag of tricks and coughed up a 3-1 lead just for old times sake. J.R. could have only smiled and said, “Ahh…memories…”

We’ve seen this from the Sharks before and unfortunately, their last three losses have been blown leads (2-1 in Detroit and the OT loss at home to Dallas). The good news is – they haven’t been losing much at all lately – but is this a real concern or just a good effort to get a point on the road against a playoff team?

Attempted levity aside, I’m not disappointed by the loss. It was a great effort against a very good team with an emotional crowd at their side. I am more and more impressed by Jason Demers every game and his continued development must be a great surprise for the Sharks front office. The Sharks have taken some heat the past few seasons for not having a top farm system, but I think the play of McGinn, Couture, Demers, Joslin, Greiss and Ferreiro in supporting roles is proving those critics wrong. It’s pretty hard to argue with the #1 seed in the West – again.

Tomorrow night’s game in Nashville isn’t on TV. Instead, Comcast Sports Bay Area is proud to present the following programming for your entertainment. After all, it is a contact sport.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SeMJOPlK-0E[/youtube]