The California hockey rivalry delivered another instant classic last night as the San Jose Sharks edged out the Los Angeles Kings 4-3 in a dramatic shootout at the SAP Center. The game, played on November 20, 2025, kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final shot, with both teams trading blows and momentum swings throughout the night.
Sharks’ Young Core Shines Under Pressure
San Jose’s youth movement was on full display, with sophomore sensation Macklin Celebrini and rookie Will Smith driving the offense. But it was
Philipp Kurashev who stole the spotlight, scoring in regulation and then netting the only goal in the shootout to clinch the win for the Sharks. Goaltender Yaroslav Askarov was a wall in net, stopping 31 shots and turning aside every Kings attempt in the shootout.
The Sharks, now 10-8-3 on the season, have won seven of their last eight games that have gone to a shootout, showing a knack for clutch performances when it matters most.
Kings’ Valiant Effort Falls Short
The Kings, entering the game with a 10-6-4 record, were looking to snap a recent road skid and solidify their playoff position. Veteran captain
Anze Kopitar—playing what could be his final regular-season game in San Jose—delivered a goal and an assist, while
Adrian Kempe tied the game late in the third period to force overtime. Despite their resilience, the Kings’ shootout woes continued, as they failed to convert on any of their attempts.
Los Angeles was without star defenseman
Drew Doughty (injured reserve) and starting goalie
Darcy Kuemper (rest), with Anton Forsberg stepping in between the pipes. The depleted blue line and missed opportunities in the shootout proved costly.
Key Moments and Turning Points
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Kurashev’s regulation goal gave the Sharks a crucial lead in the third period.
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Kempe’s late equalizer for the Kings sent the game to overtime, electrifying the visiting fans.
- In the shootout,
Kurashev’s slick move was the only successful attempt, sealing the win for San Jose.
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Askarov’s clutch saves in both overtime and the shootout preserved the victory for the Sharks.
What This Means for Both Teams
For the Sharks, this win is another confidence boost for a young roster that’s quickly finding its identity. Celebrini continues to impress, and the team’s ability to win tight games bodes well for their playoff hopes.
The Kings, meanwhile, are left searching for answers in shootouts—a recurring issue this season. With Doughty’s status uncertain and the offense struggling to finish in crunch time, Los Angeles will need to regroup quickly to stay in the thick of the Western Conference race.
Looking Ahead
Both teams face tough schedules ahead, but this game will be remembered as another chapter in one of the NHL’s most entertaining rivalries. If last night’s drama is any indication, fans can expect more fireworks when these teams meet again.
Sources
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