Sharks players celebrate the lone goal of the night on Feb, 26 2026 at SAP Center in San Jose (San Jose Sharks Media photo)

By: Fernando Abarca

SAN JOSE, Calif. — The San Jose Sharks returned to action Thursday night after a two-week pause for the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, but their comeback fell short in a 4-1 loss to the Calgary Flames at SAP Center.

The Sharks entered the game looking to build momentum in the final stretch of the regular season and opened with strong energy against their Pacific Division rivals. Despite a scoreless first period, San Jose controlled possession and generated quality chances, outshooting Calgary and dictating the pace early.

Much of the attention leading into the matchup centered on rookie standout Macklin Celebrini, who returned from the Olympics after helping Team Canada capture a silver medal. Celebrini impressed on the international stage, further cementing his role as a foundational piece for the Sharks’ rebuild.

San Jose broke through early in the second period when its second line capitalized on sustained pressure in the offensive zone. After a shot from Misa created a rebound opportunity, Mario Ferraro and Misa combined to set up Tyler Toffoli, who beat the goaltender with a wrist shot to give the Sharks a 1-0 lead.

Calgary responded late in the period. Nazem Kadri found space in the slot and tied the game with a wrist shot past the Sharks’ netminder, shifting momentum heading into the third.

The final period belonged to the Flames.

Defensive breakdowns and turnovers plagued San Jose as Calgary took control. Connor Zary capitalized on a coverage lapse to give the Flames a 2-1 advantage. At the 11:56 mark of the third, Kadri struck again for his second goal of the night, extending the lead to 3-1.

The Sharks struggled with puck management and clean zone exits throughout the period, allowing Calgary to dictate play and limit high-danger opportunities. Mikael Backlund sealed the win with an empty-net goal in the closing minutes.

With the loss, San Jose continues to search for consistency as the regular season enters its decisive stretch. Despite flashes of offensive promise and the return of key contributors from international play, defensive miscues proved costly against a disciplined Calgary squad fighting for positioning in the Western Conference standings.

The Sharks are back in action this Saturday at home against the Edmonton Oilers.