William Eklund celebrates his goal at SAP Center during the first period on Oct 30, 2025 (AP Photo)

By: Fernando Abarca (Sharks Beat writer)

SAN JOSE, CA– Thursday Night Hockey at the tank is always a great plan when the Teal win at home.

The San Jose Sharks were on a mission — and by the end of the night, they could proudly say, “Mission accomplished.” The Teal finally captured their first home win of the season, bouncing back impressively after a close loss to the Kings earlier in the week. Coming into this matchup against one of the top teams in the Metropolitan Division, the Sharks were certainly not the favorites — but they proved that determination and energy can flip any script.

Adding a touch of nostalgia, San Jose debuted their long-awaited throwback jerseys — and perhaps, just perhaps, they brought a little bit of luck with them. It was a touch of nostalgia in the game too as the Sharks who had not won a regulation game at home this season defeated the New Jersey Devils 5-2 at SAP Center.

The Sharks wasted no time making their presence felt. Just 42 seconds into the first period, William Eklund struck with a quick response, once again proving to be a key figure for this young San Jose squad. His early goal gave the Sharks exactly what they needed — momentum and belief.

Throughout the opening period, San Jose’s offense looked as sharp and cohesive as it has all season. Despite facing a tough and evenly matched opponent, the Sharks showcased a different mindset — faster, more aggressive, and more dominant. Their efforts paid off as Philipp Kurashev and Alexander Wennberg each found the back of the net before the end of the period, giving San Jose a commanding 3–0 lead heading into intermission.

The Devils responded early in the second period, taking advantage of a power-play opportunity when Dawson Mercer buried a shot to cut the deficit to 3–1. But the Sharks didn’t flinch. They stayed aggressive and continued to attack, with Will Smith and Tyler Toffoli each adding goals to extend the lead and reaffirm their importance to the team’s offensive core.

The third period tested the Sharks’ composure, as the Devils pressed hard to get back into the game. making several key saves to preserve the lead and keep San Jose in control. The defensive unit also stepped up, blocking shots and maintaining structure even as New Jersey increased the pressure late.

When the final horn sounded, the crowd at SAP Center erupted in celebration. The 5–2 victory wasn’t just another regular-season win — it felt symbolic. For a team that has struggled to find consistency early in the season, this performance showcased what the Sharks are capable of when their offense clicks and their energy stays high… as it should.

This home victory could very well mark the beginning of something positive for San Jose. With young stars like Eklund and Smith leading the charge, and veterans such as Toffoli and Wennberg providing experience and scoring touch, the Sharks showed balance, depth, and hunger. If they can carry this momentum forward, the Teal might just start seeing new things.

As the players saluted their fans at center ice, after the game, there was a sense of renewed belief in the building — a reminder that even in a long season, one big win can change everything.

November is going to start strong at the Tank as the Sharks welcome the Colorado Avalanche to kick off the month with perhaps another win.