The Sharks want to have another offseason like it, and perhaps that first-round pick they acquired from the Stars will play a role. Whatever happens, the Sharks — and certainly their fans — do not want to be in the same position they are this year.

The Stars are playing the second night of a back-to-back following an emotional shootout loss to the Los Angeles Kings.

Few NHL teams need some time away from the rink more than the San Jose Sharks. In their last game before the league pauses its schedule to hold the 4 Nations Face-Off, the Sharks gave up three goals in a lopsided first period.