The San Jose Sharks visit the Dallas Stars on New Year’s Eve. Alexander Barabanov and Oskar Lindblom scored, but the Sharks couldn’t overcome the Stars, dropping a 5-2 decision.

Period 1

Barabanov goal: I think he’s a guy who would benefit from shooting more, he’s a little look for the perfect shot. Super bounce stretch pass by Benning.

FWIW though, AB averaging about two shots a game, 1.5 last year.

Pavelski goal: Classic Pavelski. How did he get his stick on it?

Robertson goal: You hate giving a PP goal off too many men on the ice. Unforced error.

Apologies, I’ve come down with a flu, trying to get through this game. Sharks played overall fine 5-on-5, but difference is power plays. Stars 5-1 Slot Shots, 2 of those on PP. Sharks did nothing with their PPs.

Period 2

Simek not on bench, will not return.

7 in: Labanc on forecheck, takes it, feeds Hertl coming down slot. Crossbar.

Lindblom goal: Hard work, Sturm gains the zone with hustle, Lindblom takes advantage in front.

Olofsson goal: Again though, the opposition quickly blunts San Jose Sharks momentum with a goal. Megna turnover, and not well played by Karlsson, he lets Olofsson get position.

Hahn says that San Jose Sharks, led by Quinn, held a closed-door meeting on arriving in Dallas yesterday.

Strong second for Sharks, 5-3 High-Danger at 5-on-5.

Period 3

Megna maybe got away with one, San Jose Sharks have another power play.

6 in: Vlasic kills a potential 3-on-1 off Karlsson turnover. Desperate by Vlasic, all in to kill puck carrier.

8 in: Ooh Karlsson serves up a turkey, lucky nothing happens. Not a strong game for Karlsson.

8 left: Hard-working shift, nice to see Lindblom as F1 making an impact. Haven’t said that a lot this year. Leads to Gadjovich chance.

7 left: Karlsson hasn’t connected on a lot of passes this period.

San Jose Sharks have earned a break today, solid effort. But…

Hintz goal: You need a stop there, but casual play by Sharks PP. Not a good pass by Barabanov in NZ, in a mostly strong game for him. Couture has no support. Both Barabanov and Karlsson didn’t recognize Hintz.