San Jose Sharks 2014-15 Season Preview

Apr 22, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; San Jose Sharks right wing Brent Burns (88) during game three of the first round of the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Los Angeles Kings at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

3 BIG QUESTIONS

1.  Who’s The Man? – This is now a ship without a captain, literally.  Stripping Joe Thornton of the “C” while keeping him in the fold and opening it up for audition is a curious move that has more of a chance to backfire than to work out.

2. Burns Better On “D”? – The reason the Sharks dealt Stuart and Boyle was because of the plan to move Brent Burns from forward back to defense.  Whether that is borrowing from Peter to pay Paul is the big question, since Burns was a key top 6 forward.

3.  How Much Worse Can It Get? – Doug Wilson and Todd McClellan must be asking the same question.  This group has been so close for so long without being able to take that last step.  And with the core of the team all locked up for at least 3 more seasons, if the players on the ice can’t get it done then changes higher up are inevitable.