SAN JOSE — The Winnipeg Jets secured a narrow 2-1 victory over the San Jose Sharks at the SAP Center on Thursday, extending the Sharks’ losing streak to a disheartening 10 games. Goalie Connor Hellebuyck’s 27-save performance was crucial for the Jets (24-9-4), who have now won four straight and extended their point streak to five games.
Morgan Barron and Gabriel Vilardi scored for Winnipeg, with Vilardi’s third-period goal proving decisive. Winnipeg’s Brenden Dillon acknowledged the challenge posed by the Sharks, saying, “We knew it wasn’t going to be an easy game. Obviously, they’re desperate with the way the last nine games had gone for them.”
Alexander Barabanov was the lone scorer for the Sharks (9-27-3), and goalie Mackenzie Blackwood made 28 saves. Despite a strong effort, the Sharks haven’t managed a win since defeating the Jets 2-1 on Dec. 12. This marks their second losing streak of at least 10 games this season, highlighting the team’s ongoing struggles.
San Jose coach David Quinn expressed his belief in the team’s resilience: “Our guys are competing their [butts] off and they keep plugging away, and they’re going to show up again tomorrow and we’re going to get out of this.”
Barabanov’s second-period goal initially gave the Sharks a lead, but Barron quickly responded for Winnipeg, tying the game with a deflected shot. Vilardi’s third-period power-play goal then put the Jets ahead, a lead they maintained until the final whistle.
Luke Kunin of the Sharks voiced his frustration, emphasizing the need to persevere: “At the end of the day, you’ve got to find ways to win. It’s frustrating right now.”
Jets coach Rick Bowness praised the Sharks’ performance, acknowledging their speed and competitiveness: “They played hard. They didn’t give us much. They’re fast. They were hard to play against tonight.”
In additional notes, both Hellebuyck and Sharks forward Tomas Hertl were selected to represent their teams at the 2024 NHL All-Star Game in Toronto. Hellebuyck’s personal point streak now stands at 11 games, the longest run by a goaltender in Jets/Thrashers history. Hertl also had an impressive night in face-offs, winning 17 of 19 attempts.
The Jets’ victory underscores their solid form and resilience, while the Sharks continue to search for ways to snap their prolonged losing streak.
UP NEXT
The Jets look to extend their winning streak, building on their recent successes. The Sharks, facing a challenging period, will aim to regroup and find a winning formula in their upcoming games.
