- Editor's note: Sheng Peng will be a regular contributor to NBC Sports California's Sharks coverage for the 2021-22 season. You can read more of his coverage on San Jose Hockey Now, listen to him on the San Jose Hockey Now Podcast, and follow him on Twitter at @Sheng_Peng.
ANAHEIM — Zach Sawchenko has had a lot of doubters this year.
I’ll admit, I was one of them.
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SIGN UP HERE But for one night, the 24-year-old rookie proved us all wrong and gave the San Jose Sharks exactly what they needed, a solid spot start, stopping 33 of 36 shots in a 3-2 OT loss to the Anaheim Ducks.
Head coach Bob Boughner was also one of them.
“I thought he stood tall. I thought that he gave us the saves we needed early. He made some big saves to keep the momentum on our side,” Boughner acknowledged. “For his first full start, I think he should be pretty happy with it.”