San Jose Shark forward #71 Macklin Celebrini faces off against New York Ranger forward #93 Mika Zibanejad in the 3rd period at the SAP Center on January 23rd, 2026. (Photo credits to Michael Villanueva Sports Radio Services)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN JOSE- The San Jose Sharks defeated the New York Rangers 3-1 at SAP Center on Friday night, completing a season sweep of the two-game series and strengthening their hold over their Eastern Conference teams.

The Sharks, with a 13-9-3 home record and 6-4 in their past ten games, were well-suited to dominate the game, while the Rangers, having a 16-11-2 road record, had struggled recently, finishing 2-7-1 in their last ten games. This was the teams’ second meeting this season, with San Jose winning the first 6-5 in overtime on Thursday, October 23, 2025, in New York. Adding to the excitement, the game was part of Bay Area Unite, which featured the San Francisco 49ers and created a wild scene of teal, red, and gold at SAP Center.

Prior to this game, the Sharks had spent the previous four games on the road. They ended that road trip with two wins and two losses. So San Jose fans were looking forward to having their Sharks back in the bay just before they headed on the road for five games. This win was significant and a great confidence boost as they prepare to travel to Vancouver.

San Jose wasted no time establishing its dominance. Just 1:09 into the game, Macklin Celebrini scored his 25th goal of the season, assisted by Tyler Toffoli (20) and Will Smith (18). Two minutes later, Pavol Regenda extended the lead with a backhand goal assisted by Michael Misa (5) and Collin Graf. Celebrini scored his second goal of the game on a slap shot, assisted by Will Smith (19) and Collin Graf (15), giving him 26 goals for the season. Celebrini (120 games) became the fastest player in Sharks history to score 50 NHL goals, overtaking Logan Couture (135 games). The Sharks scored three goals in the first 7:37, which was their fastest in franchise history. The Sharks have not started a game like that since December 21, 2011, against the Tampa Bay Lightning. The first-period multi-point scorers have a fun history linked to their youth. At the time of the 2011 game, Celebrini was five years old, Smith was six, and Graf was nine.

Later in the first quarter, Sam Carrick scored a wrist shot with assists from Taylor Raddysh (5) and Anton Blidh (1) to cut the lead to 3-1. However, San Jose’s defense and goalkeeper prevented New York from applying continuous pressure. The second period was calmer, with the Sharks generating only 8 shots on goal compared to 17 in the first, but they remained disciplined, taking no penalties and controlling the pace.

San Jose’s waters were quiet throughout the third period. The Sharks limited the Rangers to one goal, avoiding a potential blowout for the Rangers and securing the victory at home. The Sharks’ ability to manage the game, maintain their advantage, and remain composed under pressure enabled them to win the game comfortably.

This win proved the Sharks’ ability to start quickly, play disciplined hockey, and capitalize on great performances, especially those of Macklin Celebrini, whose two goals not only launched the early surge but also won him a historic team milestone. With this win, San Jose completed the sweep of New York and continued to gather momentum at home. Making their home record for the Sharks now, 14-9-3.

The Sharks are starting off their weekend with a win. The team currently sits in 4th place in the Pacific Division, 8th place in the Western conference, and now heads on the road to play in Vancouver, BC, against the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday, January 27th, at 7 p.m.