San Jose Sharks hold players-only meeting after Kings loss

San Jose Sharks hold players-only meeting after Kings loss

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Sharks Confront Mounting Frustration After Lopsided Kings Loss

The San Jose Sharks are facing a critical inflection point in their 2026-27 campaign after a demoralizing 7-2 defeat at the hands of the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday night. Following the loss—a game in which the Kings converted on 3-of-5 power-play opportunities—the Sharks held a players-only meeting to address a downward trend that has seen the team drop three consecutive decisions.

Currently sitting at 7-9-1, San Jose is struggling to replicate the momentum that defined their late-season push last year. According to official NHL.com reporting, the team ranks 28th in the league with a 2.53 goals-per-game average, while their defensive metrics remain among the bottom tier, conceding 3.53 goals per contest.

Riley Sherwood Criticizes Kings for Late Celebrations

The frustration in the San Jose locker room reached a boiling point following the final whistle in Los Angeles. Forward Riley Sherwood, speaking candidly to reporters after the match, pointed to the Kings’ conduct during the third period as a catalyst for the team’s internal reaction.

“They were up 6-2, put their top power play out. (Artemi) Panarin’s blocking shots, celebrating to his bench. It’s disrespectful. Until we do something about it, things aren’t going to change unless we man up and do something about it,” Sherwood stated.

Sherwood emphasized that the solution lies in a shift in mindset and a more consistent work ethic. He noted that the team displays flashes of potential but lacks the maturity required to sustain high-level play over 60 minutes. Macklin Celebrini, while keeping the contents of the players-only meeting private, acknowledged the gravity of the situation. Celebrini, who recorded one of San Jose’s two power-play goals, stressed that the group remains committed to each other, even as the standings reflect a disappointing start to the season.

Adrian Kempe and Artemi Panarin Lead Kings Past Sharks

The loss to the Kings highlighted several systemic issues for San Jose. While Yaroslav Askarov recorded 20 saves, the team was overwhelmed by a balanced Los Angeles offensive attack led by Adrian Kempe’s hat trick and Artemi Panarin’s four assists. This result highlights the gap between the Sharks and the upper echelon of the Pacific Division, a reality noted by the LA Kings Insider, which characterized this matchup as a “measuring stick” game for San Jose.

The game marked the NHL debut for defenseman Eric Pohlkamp, who was recalled from the AHL.

Los Angeles Kings right wing Adrian Kempe, right, celebrates with right wing Alex Laferriere, center
Photo: TSN

Sharks Face Minnesota and Dallas on Road Trip

The urgency to find a solution is amplified by the upcoming road schedule. The Sharks are slated to conclude their current road trip against the Minnesota Wild on Friday, followed by a matchup against the Dallas Stars on Saturday. These games represent a significant test, as the team attempts to halt a three-game losing streak against formidable Western Conference opponents.

Head coach Ryan Warsofsky expressed support for the players’ initiative, noting that the leadership group’s willingness to hold each other accountable is a necessary step in the development of a young squad. “That’s up to them,” Warsofsky said. “It shows that we’ve got some leadership in here, and we’re all frustrated.”

With the Sharks currently sitting in sixth place in the Pacific Division, the team is looking to improve its performance after losing three games in a row.

Disclaimer: The analytical insights and data provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.

More on San Jose Sharks

Sherwood on Players-Only Meeting, LA Disrespecting San Jose | Sharks @ Kings Postgame (11.4.26)
Adrian Kempe reflects on a hat trick in Los Angeles Kings 7-2 win over San Jose Sharks.
Adrian Kempe Hat Trick: "Confidence Boost for Sure" | Kings vs Sharks Postgame 11/4/26

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