31 Days to Launch: Unveiling the Sharks' Legendary Number 31 Legacy
As the clock ticks down to the much-anticipated kickoff for the San Jose Sharks’ 2025-26 season against the Vegas Golden Knights, excitement tinges the air at the SAP Center. A tribute to jersey number 31 reveals a tapestry of stories woven with passion, grit, and triumphs.
Wade Flaherty: The Trailblazer
In the formative years of the Sharks, Wade Flaherty was more than just a number; he was a foundation. For five of the team’s first six seasons, Flaherty stood between the pipes, embodying resilience even as a third or fourth string goaltender. With a .878 save percentage, Flaherty’s legacy spanned continents, ending with the China Sharks in the Asia League, before channeling his expertise as a goaltending coach.
Steve Shields: A Pillar of Consistency
In the late ‘90s, the Sharks found steadiness with Toronto native Steve Shields. A time of transformation, Shields’ performance was marked by a .914 save percentage over 125 games, as he helmed the Sharks through pivotal seasons. His journey continued post-retirement with a dedication to developing future stars at his alma mater, the University of Michigan.
Nolan Schaefer: A Glimpse of Brilliance
Nolan Schaefer’s brief but memorable stint donning number 31 in the NHL embodies potential yet unexplored. Schaefer showcased a promising 1.88 goals against average, facing challenges that eventually oriented him towards international arenas—Russia and Switzerland—before retiring in 2015.
Antti Niemi: An Unwavering Anchor
A Vezina Trophy finalist, Antti Niemi’s five-year tenure with the Sharks saw exceptional highs, including thrilling playoff runs. Recalling Niemi’s legacy is to reminisce on his .917 save percentage over 296 games—a testament to dexterity and perseverance in the heart of San Jose.
Martin Jones: A Journey to Glory
When Martin Jones donned the illustrious 31, the Sharks were propelled to the Stanley Cup Finals. In an era marked by brilliance, Jones astonished fans with his first NHL All-Star appearance, leaving a lasting impact marked by a 2.66 goals against average across six seasons.
Georgi Romanov: The New Aspirant
Most recently, Georgi Romanov, the talent from Russia, brought flair to the patchwork. His journey, marked by potential yet uncertainty, continues to unfold with the New Jersey Devils as he navigates a challenging yet hopeful career path.
As stated in The Hockey News, each wearer of the number 31 jersey crafted his own legacy as layers in the Sharks’ epic history. With the onset of a new season, the legacy of excellence lives on, igniting hopes for yet another glorious chapter.
