San Jose Sharks Top L.A. Kings, Clinch Playoff Spot

The NHL regular season is winding down, and the playoff slots are filling up fast. The latest team to clinch a berth is the San Jose Sharks. The Sharks scored three times in the third period to beat the Pacific Division rival Los Angeles Kings 5-2 on March 28th. Justin Braun scored two goals and Martin Joes had 30 saves to lead the Sharks to victory, snapping a three game losing streak.

The Kings lead the Pacific Division with 95 points, with the Anaheim Ducks just a point behind. San Jose has 90. Besides the three California teams, Dallas, St. Louis, and Chicago have clinched post season berths in the West Conference.

Things are much less settled in the Wild Wild East, with the Washington Capitals the only team to clinch a berth. The Capitals continued their fine season with a 4-1 victory over Columbus, which clinched the Presidents Trophy, emblematic of the best regular season record and more importantly, home ice advantage throughout the playoffs.