Kings v. Sharks - Scoring Chances

The Sharks were likely the stronger club in this game, but the Kings were playing with the lead for almost the entire third period, so it's hard to say for sure. They certainly weren't getting dominated by the chances through two periods, but it seemed like the Sharks were much more able to keep the puck deep in the offensive zone. Their forechecking was particularly good, and there were a couple of moments where the Kings' defenders coughed up the puck because of the pressure. Drew Doughty, in particular, seemed to struggle more than usual with the puck in his own end.

This game also had its share of blunders with each goalie allowing one goal from outside the scoring chance area. Jonathan Quick doubtless felt awful about his as it came with just three and a half minutes to play in the third period and allowed the Sharks to tie the game. But just a couple minutes later, the Kings were able to tie the game with their second power play goal of the game (on just their second power play scoring chance, neither of which came with the first unit on the ice). Sadly, the Kings gave it back again with just ten seconds to play! Several Kings had a chance to clear the zone on the play leading to the goal but none did and was off to overtime, where the Kings looked much better than they had at any other point in the game.

The Kings next game is tonight against the Oilers, which should be lots of fun! I'll have the chances I've counted so far in that GDT. Scoring chances for this one are after the jump.

For those who'd like a definition: a scoring chance is defined as a clear play directed toward the opposing net from a dangerous scoring area - loosely defined as the top of the circle in and inside the faceoff dots, though sometimes slightly more generous than that depending on the amount of immediately-preceding puck movement or screens in front of the net. Blocked shots are generally not included but missed shots are. A player is awarded a scoring chance anytime he is on the ice and someone from either team has a chance to score. He is awarded a "chance for" if someone on his team has a chance to score and a "chance against" if the opposing team has a chance to score. Finally, a big thanks to Vic Ferrari for making the whole damn thing possible with his awesome scripts.

Scoring Chances for NHL Game Number 21110