The Sharks have yet to take the ice in the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs but already the "what-if" questions are emerging. It's just one of a number of media storylines about a club -- picked by many to win the Stanley Cup -- that nearly missed the postseason.
What do you think about San Jose's chances? Here's a sampling of opinion and analysis from around the Web:
Revenge in play for Blues
The matchup sets the stage for numerous story lines, including the long-remembered issue of "payback'" in the mind of Blues fans who hold a grudge against San Jose for upsetting their top-seeded, Presidents' Trophy-winning club in 2000. The city won't soon forget, either, about Joe Thornton's hit on David Perron in November 2010, forcing Perron to miss 97 games with a concussion.
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What becomes of an early exit by San Jose?
Some (including Yahoo Sports' Puck Daddy) even predicted them to win the Cup. Now, with the prospect of taking on the St. Louis Blues who swept the seasons series 4-0, it's possible the Sharks don't make it out of Round 1 for just the second time since 1999. If summer comes early in San Jose, what does that mean going forward. Is head coach Todd McLellan safe? Does GM Doug Wilson get desperate and move out some big names or does just make small adjustments and go for it one last time.
Penguins are favored, Sharks a longshot
Fan loyalties aside, who would you put some hard-earned greenbacks on? Here's how online wagering site Bovada.com sees the NHL postseason:
Pittsburgh Penguins41
New York Rangers112
Vancouver Canucks112
St. Louis Blues152
Boston Bruins81
Detroit Red Wings121
Nashville Predators141
Philadelphia Flyers141
Chicago Blackhawks161
San Jose Sharks181
Los Angeles Kings201
New Jersey Devils251
Washington Capitals301
Florida Panthers351
Ottawa Senators401
Phoenix Coyotes401
http:sports.bovada.lvsports-bettinghockey-futures.jsp
Focus on the fourth line
Obviously, if the Sharks are going to win this first-round matchup against the daunting St. Louis Blues, then they're going to need high-level performances from their star players. But the fourth line will be a factor, writes Matthew Taylor at FearTheFin.com
Grand opportunity for Blues
The Blues (who are a perfect 4-0 against San Jose this season) have to live with the pressure of increased expectations, writes legendary St. Louis columnist Bernie Miklasz. After rebuilding and scuffling through so many down seasons, the Blues have raised hope. Another early postseason elimination would be emotionally devastating.