The Sharks are just the better team, guys. Even though we outplayed them for much of the game, they still came out on top by finishing their chances. They're far better than we are in front of their own net, and that will always make the difference. The Sharks defensemen very rarely allow us to get a clean shot off towards Niemi, and even when we happen to do so, Niemi is positioned correctly. Credit to them. That's the difference between the two teams.
I'd like to see a bunch of changes for next season. We are absolutely not playing to our potential, both as individuals and as a team. Some of these blue liners have to go, especially Ericsson and Stuart, perhaps Rafalski as well. They just aren't living up to expectations. When it comes to the forwards, we will probably have to dump a few players and bring in guys like Tatar who have a bright future. I don't see why we shouldn't bring him in next season. Hudler played well today but has been a major disappointment.
Too many stupid penalties again as well, along with missed chances, like the PP in overtime. The trend in this playoffs is if you have a powerplay in overtime, you had better score, or you're toast. We simply couldn't find a way to win. And since we aren't playing to our potential and taking stupid penalties constantly, Mike Babcock takes some blame as well.
Congrats to the Sharks. Hopefully we can at least win the next game.