Pregame Preview #61: Sharks Looking For Redemption Against Stars

The San Jose Sharks return home after a quick two-game road trip to host the Dallas Stars.

The San Jose Sharks (15-39-6) return home after a quick two-game road trip to host the Dallas Stars (37-17-9).

San Jose fell 3-2 in a shootout to the Stars on Saturday, where Magnus Chrona was stellar.

Sharks head coach David Quinn confirmed that Kaapo Kahkonen will start and that injured goalie Mackenzie Blackwood is close to returning. Blackwood won't be activated tonight, so Chrona will be the backup. 

William Eklund missed the game on Sunday due to an illness but was on the ice during the Sharks' optional morning skate. Alexander Barabanov did not travel over the weekend due to an injury, but he was on the ice this morning like Eklund. 

Quinn confirmed that the team would return to a traditional 12 forwards and six defensemen, which bodes well for Barabanov and Eklund.

The trade deadline is rapidly approaching, so there is a chance that the Sharks could play a little distracted.

Newly acquired defenseman Chris Tanev is a game-time decision for the Stars.

Sharks projected line combinations:

Duclair-Granlund-Zetterlund
Zadina-Eklund-Kunin
Barabanov-Sturm-Hoffman
Labanc-Carpenter-Bailey

Ferraro-Burroughs
Thrun-Rutta
Vlasic-Addison

Kahkonen
Chrona

Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m. PST and can be seen on NBC Sports California or the Sharks Audio Network.

Make sure you bookmark THN's San Jose Sharks site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.

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