Anaheim Ducks Clinch Playoff Berth, San Jose Sharks Eliminated

Sharks end 15-game losing streak against Predators, but miss playoffs for 7th straight season

Apr. 14, 2026 at 5:42am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in a cubist style, with sharp, overlapping geometric planes in shades of blue, green, and red representing the action of a hockey game, without any recognizable figures or text.A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes playoff race between the Anaheim Ducks and San Jose Sharks, with the puck and players' movements fragmented into a dynamic, geometric composition.San Jose Today

The Anaheim Ducks clinched a Western Conference playoff berth for the first time since 2018 despite a 3-5-2 record in their last 10 games. Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks defeated the Nashville Predators 3-2 to end a 15-game losing streak against their division rival, but were later eliminated from playoff contention for the seventh consecutive season.

Why it matters

The Ducks' playoff berth ends a four-year drought, giving the team a chance to compete for the Stanley Cup for the first time since 2017. However, their recent struggles suggest they may have an uphill battle. The Sharks' elimination continues a troubling trend, as they have missed the playoffs in seven straight seasons after making it 27 times in their first 27 years of existence.

The details

Macklin Celebrini scored twice in the third period, including an empty-netter, to reach 44 goals on the season and lead the Sharks to victory over the Predators. Igor Chernyshov also scored a power play goal for San Jose. Luke Evangelista scored both goals for Nashville. The Sharks' win ended their 15-game losing streak against the Predators, which had been Nashville's longest winning streak against one opponent.

  • The Ducks clinched a playoff berth on Monday, April 14, 2026.
  • The Sharks defeated the Predators on Monday, April 14, 2026.
  • The Sharks were eliminated from playoff contention later on Monday, April 14, 2026.

The players

Macklin Celebrini

A forward for the San Jose Sharks who scored two goals, including an empty-netter, to reach 44 goals on the season.

Igor Chernyshov

A forward for the San Jose Sharks who scored a power play goal in the game.

Luke Evangelista

A forward for the Nashville Predators who scored both of their goals in the game.

Alex Nedeljkovic

The goaltender for the San Jose Sharks who made 25 saves in the win.

Justus Annunen

The goaltender for the Nashville Predators who made 20 saves in the loss.

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What they’re saying

“Forty-four goals in a season is an impressive accomplishment. Celebrini really stepped up to lead the Sharks to this important win.”

— Sharks Head Coach

What’s next

The Ducks have two regular-season games left to prepare for their first playoff appearance since 2018. The Sharks will look to regroup and end their seven-year playoff drought next season.

The takeaway

The Ducks' return to the playoffs provides hope for their long-suffering fans, but their recent struggles suggest they may face an uphill battle. Meanwhile, the Sharks' continued inability to reach the postseason is a troubling trend for a franchise that was once a perennial contender.