The Sharks look to take a 2-0 series lead in the Western Conference Final when they host the Blues on Monday night at the SAP Center.
This is a familiar situation for San Jose, who have Game 1 in each of the first two series but failed to take Game 2 each time. The Sharks hope their home ice advantage can reverse that trend as they’re 7-2 at the Shark Tank. It’ll be a tough task against the Blues, who are 5-2 on the road in the playoffs this year.
San Jose cashed in on a litany of turnovers and defensive miscues from the Blues to take Game 1 in the series 6-3. It was the first time rookie goaltender Jordan Binnington had allowed five goals since Game 3 in the first round against the Jets. Better defensive play and offensive contributions from Brayden Schenn, Alexander Steen and Robert Thomas, who each have just one goal in 14 playoff games, would help the Blues.
Monday’s schedule
Game 1: Blues at Sharks, 8 p.m. (NBCSN)