Regardless of who the Sharks end up playing, they will be playing a familiar opponent throughout the western conference bracket. In the past 10 years, Sharks have played each of the current teams qualified for a playoff position in the playoffs; in addition, they have beaten 5 of the 7 teams selected within that timespan in the playoffs as well:
Vancouver--2011 (L 4-1)
St. Louis--2004 (W 4-1)
Phoenix--2002 (W 4-1)
Nashville--2006 and 2007 (W both 4-1)
Detroit--2007, 2010, and 2011 (L 4-2, W 4-1, and W 4-3, respectively)
Chicago--2010 (L 4-0)
LA--2011 (W 4-2)
Within this span
against these opponents:
-Their combined record against these teams in the playoffs is 29-22
-Sharks have won 5 series 4-1
-Sharks have played Detroit the most--winning 2 to 1
-Sharks have had home ice in 6 of the 10 matchups
-Sharks record with home ice advantage: 5-1
-Sharks record without home ice advantage: 2-2
Maybe not the most useful stats, but I feel it's a testament to our playoff pedigree. Perhaps psychological advantages, if anything? I'm just thankful for Joe Thornton
