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Sharks have their sights set on a division title

Mar 24, 2007 - 2:33 PM San Jose (46-25-4) at Carolina (37-29-8) 7:00 pm EDT

RALEIGH, North Carolina (Ticker) - The San Jose Sharks are streaking to the top of the Pacific Division.

The Sharks have won two straight and earned at least a point in their last 10 games to move within two points of Anaheim (43-19-12) for first place in the Pacific and second in the Western Conference behind Nashville (47-21-7). They complete a four-game road trip against the Carolina Hurricanes.

San Jose has been dominating opponents lately, outscoring the opposition 38-10 over the last ten games. The top line of Jonathan Cheechoo, Milan Michalek and Joe Thornton has been particularly effective. Cheechoo has scored eight goals, Michalek six more, and Thornton has 16 assists during the streak.

Top goaltender Evgeni Nabokov is 6-0-2 in his last eight starts with three shutouts for the Sharks, who beat Southeast division leader Atlanta, 5-1, in their last game. Cheechoo tallied three goals, Michalek one and Thornton added three assists in the win.

Right wing Bill Guerin, who has six goals during the streak, left Thursday's game against Atlanta after one shift in the third period with a groin injury.

The Hurricanes are locked in a battle with Montreal (38-31-6) for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Carolina defeated Washington, 4-3, Thursday behind third period goals from Eric Staal and Andrew Ladd.

Goalie Cam Ward started the third period against Washington in his first appearance in 11 days after lacerating his knee against the Rangers March 3.

The Hurricanes have won three of four and recorded at least a point in five of their last six games.