The Vegas Golden Knights and San Jose Sharks don't like each other. Their fanbases chirp at one another on various social media platforms, including X (A.K.A. Twitter). Sometimes, the chirping expands beyond a rivalry into weird takes from a guy named Josh. Overall, it makes for an underrated feud that's vastly underappreciated by the NHL.
Besides, who doesn't remember the infamous cross-checking penalty called on Cody Eakin in Game 7 of the 2019 Stanley Cup playoffs? That should've been a minor penalty, as even the NHL will admit. However, it laid the groundwork for the feud we have today.
The only difference is the Sharks aren't as competitive as they were before. Gone are the days of Joe Pavelski and Tomas Hertl. The team has spent a few years rebuilding their franchise, making it a better unit for the future. Currently, they sit at 0-6-2, good for last in the Pacific Division. As for their hated rivals? The Golden Knights are tied for first with 11 points and a record of 5-2-1.
Let's examine this rivalry further and see who has the upper hand. Some Golden Knights fans will know the answer to this question. However, it's worth sharing with those new to the rivalry, so they can see the history. Who's got the better of the Sharks-Golden Knights feud?
The Vegas Golden Knights have an all-time record of 24-2-5 against the San Jose Sharks
In a surprisingly lopsided record, the Vegas Golden Knights have dominated the San Jose Sharks. They hold a lifetime record of 24-2-5 against their rivals, with Vegas even winning 11 straight games at one point (December 2, 2019, to March 1, 2022). That's a span of three years!
Imagine what you've done during that time period. You've probably gotten your dog, Bark Stone, another Rabies shot. You've likely changed your car battery so it doesn't melt in the sweltering heat. Yet, there are the Golden Knights, beating the Sharks in a hockey game.
Now, Tomas Hertl is playing for Vegas while Macklin Celebrini is the new kid on San Jose's block. The story lines will create for interesting drama over the seasons, giving fans something to tell their grandchildren. Saturday's tilt between the rivals will be no different, where both squads will renew their hatred once more.
As for the playoff series? That has more of a rivalry feel, with the Golden Knights holding the edge, 7-6. Both teams have won a playoff series, with the infamous cross-checking call taking center stage. Fans aren't likely to see these two face off against each other in the playoffs this season. However, the groundwork is being made for more memorable postseason moments, starting with Celebrini.