NHL Predictions: December 11th San Jose Sharks at Toronto Maple Leafs

As the Leafs gear up to face the Sharks, this game presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Toronto. After a rocky start to the season, the Leafs have recently shown glimpses of stability, but consistency will be key if they want to avoid another surprise loss. San Jose, meanwhile, remains a dangerous opponent capable of swinging momentum with timely offence and pressure on the rush. Welcome back to another edition of NHL Predictions with Last Word On Hockey. Today is the Sharks and Leafs, who are you taking in this one?

NHL Predictions Leafs vs Sharks and What to Watch

2025-26 Head-to-Head: Sharks 0-0 Leafs

Time: 7:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)

How to Watch: TSN 4, ESPN+, NBCCSA

Sharks’ Snapshot Still Dangerous Despite the Struggles

San Jose enters this contest with a record that reflects their struggles, but their potential for flashes of offense keeps them dangerous. Going 14-14-3 so far this season, the Sharks have a minus-16 goal differential and have scored 86 goals while conceding 102. Their road record 5-9-0, doesn’t inspire much confidence, but their veterans and opportunistic forwards are always capable of turning a game on its head. Their season has been rough, yet they remain unpredictable, especially when able to pressure teams that take offensive risks.

For players like William Eklund and Will Smith, each with good goal and assist totals, the Sharks’ success will depend on their ability to generate chances at even strength or on the power play. Any defensive lapse by Toronto could give them that window.

Leafs’ Case Regain Momentum, Find Consistency

The Leafs, currently 14-11-4 overall with a strong home record (9-4-4), are hoping to use this game to keep building momentum. Toronto’s offence, producing roughly 3.3 goals per game, ranks among the better attacking teams in the league, and their top forwards are leaning into their roles.

Crucially, their defence and goaltending have shown signs of improvement recently, which should help stabilize their performance over a full 60 minutes. If they can control possession, manage the neutral zone, and avoid turnovers, they stand a strong chance.

With players like William Nylander, John Tavares, Auston Matthews, and rising contributors in the lineup, Toronto’s depth could prove the deciding factor, especially if their special teams execute.

Prediction & Key Bets

Final Score Prediction: 4-2 Maple Leafs

This feels like a game where the Maple Leafs, at home and with stronger support, should have the advantage. If they execute defensively and avoid leaving room for San Jose’s transition game, Toronto’s speed and firepower up front should carry them. Expect Toronto to control the flow for much of the night, but the Sharks could strike on a counter. Ultimately, sustained pressure and tighter defence give the Leafs the edge.

Best Betting Angles:

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