Momentum is something that is overstated during games. A missed shot here, a made shot there. But when it comes to the playoffs, momentum is everything. After winning the first three games of the series against the LA Kings, the Sharks had a chance to finish off Los Angeles in game 4. After losing game 5, most fans knew in the back of their minds that the inevitable was coming.
These kind of letdowns occur all the time to sports franchises, especially franchises who keep the same set of players during their prime. It happens to certain star players during specific eras. Joe Thornton and Dan Boyle have been the face of the franchise for the past 7 years. Patrick Marleau for the past 15. Years of disappointment, years of talent, and a lack of killer instinct have hurt this trio and their team's chances of moving forward.
In history, teams have been able to over-come devastating playoff defeats. Often times, new players have to be put into place and a new culture and era have to be enforced.
I understand the disappointment, the anger, and shock after game 7 last night. But lets keep this series loss in perspective. The Sharks haven't sniffed a Stanley Cup appearance for decades. Titles are won with certain players and in certain eras. This era will come and go and new faces will arrive.
The Sharks will win a Stanley Cup title. Management will acquire the right talent in place for another run.
But for a city longing for a celebration down San Pedro square, San Jose will have to wait just a little bit longer.
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