Sharks host Blackhawks in Western Conference matchup

Chicago and San Jose meet for the second time this season in a Pacific Division clash.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 8:26am

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The San Jose Sharks (36-32-7) will host the Chicago Blackhawks (28-35-14) in a Western Conference matchup on Monday night. The Sharks have an 18-5-6 record in one-goal games this season, while the Blackhawks have a -51 goal differential overall. The teams previously met earlier this season, with the Blackhawks winning 6-3.

Why it matters

This game features two teams from different divisions in the Western Conference, with the Sharks looking to solidify their playoff positioning in the Pacific Division and the Blackhawks hoping to play spoiler as they continue to rebuild.

The details

The Sharks are led by forward Will Smith, who has 22 goals and 32 assists this season. Macklin Celebrini has been hot of late for San Jose, recording six goals and five assists in the last 10 games. For the Blackhawks, Connor Bedard has 30 goals and 40 assists, while Nick Lardis has four goals and two assists in the last 10 games.

  • The teams will meet on Monday, April 5, 2026 at 10 p.m. EDT.
  • The Blackhawks won the previous matchup between the teams 6-3 earlier this season.

The players

Will Smith

The Sharks' leading scorer with 22 goals and 32 assists this season.

Macklin Celebrini

Has been on a hot streak for the Sharks, recording six goals and five assists in the last 10 games.

Connor Bedard

The Blackhawks' top scorer with 30 goals and 40 assists this season.

Nick Lardis

Has four goals and two assists for the Blackhawks in the last 10 games.

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What they’re saying

“We know the Sharks are a tough team to beat at home, but we're ready for the challenge. Our guys have been working hard and we're looking forward to a good game.”

— Luke Richardson, Blackhawks Head Coach

“This is a big game for us as we try to solidify our playoff position. We've had some close games with the Blackhawks this season, so we know we'll need to bring our best effort to get the win.”

— David Quinn, Sharks Head Coach

What’s next

The winner of this game will take a step closer to securing a playoff spot in the Western Conference.

The takeaway

This matchup between the Sharks and Blackhawks features two teams heading in different directions this season, with San Jose looking to cement their playoff position and Chicago playing for pride as they continue to rebuild. The outcome could have significant implications for the Western Conference playoff race.