Our NHL 2015/2016 Simulation From EA Sports’ NHL 16
By Fraser G.
San Jose Sharks
Although they only managed to take the fourth spot, the Sharks finished 20 points higher than their nearest rivals in the Pacific Division, grabbing a playoff berth in the process. This was largely due to the efforts of three stand out individuals – Joe Pavelski, Brent Burns and Tomáš Hertl, who scored the team’s top points, assists, and goals respectively.
The Sharks acquired Jiri Tlusty in a surprising mid-season trade from the Devils and it paid off, with Tlusty finishing the season on 38 points. Brent Burns was a particular standout as one of the top defenders in the entire league, let alone the Sharks. He finished with 21 goals – just two shy of Hertl, while also creating 33 assists. An aging Joe Thornton finished the season with 10 goals and 33 assists, while Patrick Marleau dropped off the pace with just 29 points for the season.
With all of the speculation surrounding Martin Jones, the Sharks’ new number 1 goaltender had a very good season, finishing with a GAA of 2.180 and a SV% of .927.
Although they only finished fourth in the division, Sharks fans will be pleased with their performance this year.
Division: 4th
Conference: 8th
League: 14th