Canucks defeat Sharks in shootout, dashing playoff hopes

The Canucks' victory over the Sharks further diminishes San Jose's slim postseason chances.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 6:27am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a hockey game, with the players' forms broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in a palette of deep blues, greens, and reds.A cubist interpretation of the tense hockey matchup between the Sharks and Canucks, with the game's action fragmented into a dynamic, geometric composition.San Jose Today

The Vancouver Canucks defeated the San Jose Sharks 4-3 in a shootout on Saturday, dealing a significant blow to the Sharks' fading playoff hopes. The game was tightly contested, with the Sharks taking an early lead before the Canucks rallied to tie it up and eventually prevail in the shootout.

Why it matters

The Sharks were already on the outside looking in when it comes to the NHL playoff picture, and this loss makes their path to the postseason even more difficult. The Canucks, meanwhile, are still in the hunt and this victory keeps them in the mix.

The details

The Sharks jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first period, with a goal from Igor Chernyshov assisted by Will Smith. However, the Canucks stormed back to tie the game at 2-2 by the end of the second period. The game went to a shootout, where the Canucks emerged victorious to hand the Sharks another tough loss in their quest for a playoff berth.

  • The game was played on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
  • The Sharks took a 2-0 lead in the first period.

The players

Igor Chernyshov

San Jose Sharks left wing who scored a goal in the game.

Will Smith

San Jose Sharks teammate who assisted on Chernyshov's goal.

Vancouver Canucks

The opposing team that defeated the Sharks in a shootout.

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What they’re saying

“We knew this was a must-win game for us, and we just couldn't close it out. It's a tough loss, but we'll keep fighting.”

— Igor Chernyshov, San Jose Sharks left wing

What’s next

The Sharks will need to win their remaining games and get help from other teams in order to have a chance at making the playoffs.

The takeaway

This loss further diminishes the Sharks' slim playoff hopes, while the Canucks remain in contention for a postseason berth. The Sharks will need to regroup and win their remaining games if they want to keep their playoff dreams alive.