The San Jose Sharks are witnessing a notable increase in fan attendance, countering their position at the bottom of the NHL's average attendance rankings. As of January 9, 2025, the Sharks are averaging 13,859 attendees, which is 79.5% of SAP Center's capacity of 17,435 seats. This marks an increase of 1.8% year-over-year, placing them fourth in attendance growth among all NHL teams, excluding the Winnipeg Jets.

While still trailing significantly behind franchises like the Florida Panthers and the Washington Capitals, who reported increases of 2.1% and 2% respectively, the Sharks are slowly drawing fans back. Notably, head coach Ryan Warsofsky has emphasized the importance of rewarding loyal fans with strong performances, especially following a sellout crowd during a recent victory over the New Jersey Devils.

The presence of rookie sensation Macklin Celebrini is a key factor in the Sharks' growing appeal, as his standout performances have begun to capture the attention of a wider audience.

In a recent game, San Jose Sharks forward Klim Kostin attempted to defend his teammate Mikael Granlund after a hard check from Calgary Flames forward Martin Pospisil. Despite the hit being ruled clean, Kostin expressed disappointment when Pospisil refused to engage in a fight after targeting Granlund. Kostin emphasized the importance of standing up for teammates, referencing the rarity of players willing to drop the gloves in today's NHL.

Throughout the match, other Sharks, including Nico Sturm, showcased their commitment to team solidarity by defending fellow players. Kostin remarked that every NHL team is expected to protect its best players, asserting that the Sharks embody this warrior mentality. Head coach Ryan Warsofsky echoed this sentiment, highlighting the camaraderie within the team.

As the Sharks struggle with a record of 1-9-1 in their last 11 games, the refusal of Pospisil to fight may have been influenced by the game's circumstances, as the Flames were leading late in the third period. The Sharks, who have now lost seven consecutive games, plan to regroup and practice after a challenging stretch.

In a decisive matchup at SAP Center, the Calgary Flames triumphed over the San Jose Sharks with a score of 3-1, thanks to a stellar performance from Jonathan Huberdeau, who netted two goals. The game showcased Huberdeau's skill as he opened the scoring with a deft tip-in of MacKenzie Weegar's shot early in the first period. The Flames, who have been gaining momentum, now hold a record of 17-11-7 after winning three of their last five games.

Despite a valiant effort from the Sharks, who have struggled recently with a record of 1-9-1 in their last eleven games, they managed to tie the game through rookie Macklin Celebrini's power-play goal in the second period. However, the Flames quickly regained the lead with Mikael Backlund's power-play goal shortly thereafter. Flames coach Ryan Huska praised his team's performance, noting their solid play throughout most of the game.

Yaroslav Askarov, the Sharks' goalie, made 30 saves but was unable to stop Huberdeau's empty-net goal in the closing seconds, sealing the Flames' victory. The Sharks' coach, Ryan Warsofsky, expressed disappointment in his team's slow start and inability to capitalize on opportunities. This game marked another setback for San Jose as they continue to search for answers amidst their ongoing struggles.

Macklin Celebrini, an 18-year-old center for the San Jose Sharks, is set to play his first NHL game at Rogers Arena against the Vancouver Canucks, a dream come true for the North Vancouver native.

Drafted first overall, Celebrini has made an impact with 11 goals and 12 assists in his first 24 games. Despite the Sharks' struggles this season, his performance has drawn praise from teammates and coaches alike.

With family and friends in attendance, this milestone game is particularly special for Celebrini, whose father has deep ties to the Canucks.

In a thrilling matchup, the Colorado Avalanche triumphed over the San Jose Sharks with a 4-2 victory, thanks to Joel Kiviranta's two goals in the third period and Mackenzie Blackwood's solid 32 saves against his former team.

The Avalanche have now secured five wins in their last seven games, while the Sharks continue to struggle, having lost six of their last seven outings.

Colorado's Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar each contributed with two assists, showcasing the team's depth and resilience.