The San Jose Sharks closed out the preseason with a thrilling 6-5 comeback victory over the Vegas Golden Knights, highlighted by a thrilling last-second goal from forward Ethan Cardwell. With just 12 seconds left, Cardwell scored the game winner off a pass from Nico Sturm, dramatically sealing the victory at T-Mobile Arena.

A young Sharks lineup showed resilience against a veteran-laden Vegas squad. Leading the charge was Danil Gushchin, who made a compelling case for a squad place with a remarkable performance of five assists. His playmaking fueled the offense, including helpers on all three of the Sharks’ goals in the third period.

In the back-and-forth match, San Jose and Vegas scored in the first period, including goals from Jimmy Schuldt and Klim Kostin for the Sharks. However, Vegas took a lead and held it with a lone goal in the second period.

A wild Saturday night occurred in the third frame when Mario Ferraro started the fun just 35 seconds into the final period to make it 3-3. The Golden Knights responded and not only regained the lead, but grew it to 5-3. The Sharks refused to back down and fought back once again. Gushchin continued his attacking performance, helping Kunin find a pair of goals to take things to five apiece. And finally, the fireworks ended with twelve seconds left when Cardwell got the Sharks back on top for a 6-5 win.

As the regular season opener loomed on Oct. 10 at the SAP Center against the St. Louis Blues, the Sharks’ young talent made a statement. Their energy and determination set the tone for what promises to be an exciting season. Don’t miss Saturday night’s home opener and an exciting showdown with the Anaheim Ducks as part of the annual Los Tiburones holiday game. Buy tickets today at sjsharks.com/tickets.

Score overview:

SJS goals: Schuldt, Kostin, Ferraro, Kunin (2), Cardwell

VGK goals: Dorofeyev (3), Holtz, Stone

Goaltending:

SJS: Mackenzie Blackwood – 31 saves on 36 shots

VGK: Adin Hill – 23 saves on 29 shots