SAN JOSE, Calif. — In an exciting matchup on Tuesday night, Tyler Toffoli netted the decisive goal in the third period, helping the San Jose Sharks secure a 4-2 victory over the Los Angeles Kings. This win marked San Jose’s second consecutive triumph after a challenging start in which they went without a win in their first nine games.

Jake Walman continued to shine, contributing one goal and two assists, following a stellar performance in Monday’s 5-4 overtime victory against Utah, where he recorded three assists. Fabian Zetterlund also made a significant impact with a critical goal in the third period, while William Eklund capped off the scoring with an empty-netter. Sharks’ goaltender Vitek Vanecek was solid in net, turning away 26 shots from the Kings.

For Los Angeles, Akil Thomas and Alex Laferriere found the back of the net, while goalie David Rittich made 17 saves but was unable to stave off the Sharks’ offensive pressure.

A notable absence for the Kings was star forward Kevin Fiala, who was sidelined after missing a team meeting, a violation of team protocol. The Kings were looking for their fifth victory in six games but were unable to capitalize on their opportunities. Meanwhile, forward Ethan Cardwell made his NHL debut for the Sharks, playing just under 12 minutes after being called up from the San Jose Barracuda earlier in the day, following the placement of Ty Dellandrea on the injured list.

The pivotal moment in the game came when Toffoli scored his sixth this season with just under nine minutes remaining, a backhand shot that broke the 2-2 tie and propelled San Jose ahead. Walman registered an assist on the goal, underscoring his importance in the Sharks’ offensive strategy.

Statistically, both teams struggled on the power play, combining for an ineffective 0 for 10 with the Kings failing to take advantage of six power play opportunities and the Sharks missing four. Following this game, the Kings will host the Vegas Golden Knights on Wednesday night, while the Sharks are set to welcome the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday night.