The San Jose Sharks history reflects the journey of one of the NHL’s most exciting franchises. Since their debut in 1991, the Sharks have built a reputation for skill and determination. Each San Jose Sharks game brings passionate energy, iconic performances, and unforgettable moments that continue to shape the team’s identity in professional hockey.
Established
1991
City
San Jose
League History
1991 – Present / National Hockey League
Team History
1991 – Present / San Jose Sharks
Nickname
Sharks – The San Jose Sharks have been a beloved team in the National Hockey League since their inception in 1991. While many fans may not know it, the origin of the Sharks’ name is quite exciting and has an important place in San Jose's history.
San Jose Sharks Origin
The nickname “Sharks” was chosen to honor local wildlife and culture and evoke fear on the ice. The shark is native to Northern California waters and known for its powerful hunting abilities, so this made it a perfect fit for an NHL team representing one of Silicon Valley's most iconic cities. Additionally, sharks are often associated with strength and power - qualities that any successful hockey team needs!
San Francisco Bay Area residents also have a strong connection with sharks due to its long-standing surfing culture; surfers often encounter great white sharks while out on waves near Santa Cruz or Half Moon Bay, which only adds more significance behind why this fierce animal became synonymous with hockey success at SAP Center (formerly HP Pavilion). Finally, there's something about seeing those sharp teeth inside circles around each letter of "SHARKS" that looks intimidating – even if you're not playing against them!
In short: when choosing their nickname back in '91, ownership wanted something special for San Jose that would represent local wildlife & culture while instilling fear into opponents – thus making “Sharks” an obvious choice from day one!
Championship
Stanley Cup 0
Arena
2022 - Present / Tech CU Arena
2013 – 2022 / SAP Center at San Jose
2002 – 2013 / HP Pavilion at San Jose
2001 – 2002 / Compaq Center at San Jose
1993 – 2001 / San Jose Arena
*San Francisco*
1991 – 1993 / Cow Palace
Owner
2001 – Present / San Jose Sports & Entertainment Enterprises
1991 – 2001 / Gordon and George Gund
- 1991
- 1994
- 2002
-
San Jose Sharks Team Formation
The Oakland Coliseum Arena was home to the California Golden Seals of the NHL from 1967 to 1976. Gordon and George Gund III became minority owners of the Seals in 1974 and were instrumental in their move to Cleveland in 1976 and a 1978 merger with the Minnesota North Stars, which they purchased that year. They had long wanted to ... -
San Jose Arena Opens
For their third season, 1993 – 1994, the Sharks moved to their current home, the San Jose Arena (now the SAP Center at San Jose). The SAP Center at San Jose, originally San Jose Arena and formerly the Compaq Center at San Jose and HP Pavilion at San Jose is an American indoor arena, located in San Jose, California. Its ... -
San Jose Sports & Entertainment Enterprises
Following the 2001 – 2002 season, the Gunds sold the Sharks to a group of local investors headed by team president Greg Jamison. San Jose Sports & Entertainment Enterprises (SJSEE) is a private company based in San Jose, California which owns the San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League, the Worcester Sharks of the American Hockey League, and manages ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
San Jose Sharks History
The San Jose Sharks history began in 1991 when the franchise joined the National Hockey League (NHL) as part of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference. Based in San Jose, California, the team quickly built a passionate fan base and became one of the league’s most respected organizations. From their first San Jose Sharks game, fans have been treated to a combination of speed, skill, and toughness that helped establish the Sharks as a true competitor. The Sharks have reached the Stanley Cup Finals multiple times, making them a constant presence in playoff discussions.
Throughout the San Jose Sharks history, legendary players such as Owen Nolan, Patrick Marleau, Joe Thornton, and Evgeni Nabokov have left their mark on the franchise. Their leadership and talent shaped a winning culture that continues today. Star players like Logan Couture and Brent Burns have earned multiple All-Star selections, carrying forward the tradition of excellence in every San Jose Sharks game. The team’s fierce rivalry with the Vegas Golden Knights adds intensity and excitement to matchups, ensuring each contest is highly anticipated by fans across the league.
Another hallmark of the San Jose Sharks history is the consistency of their management and coaching staff, which has helped maintain stability and performance despite roster changes. From the front office to the ice, the Sharks have become synonymous with professionalism, making each San Jose Sharks game an event fans look forward to throughout the season. This commitment to excellence has kept the team competitive in a demanding NHL landscape.
Sharks Achievements
The San Jose Sharks history also includes major achievements that define their legacy. The Sharks have captured several division titles and conference championships, proving their ability to contend at the highest level of hockey. Their 2016 run to the Stanley Cup Final remains a highlight of the franchise, symbolizing the determination and heart the team brings to each San Jose Sharks game.
As one of the NHL’s youngest but most accomplished franchises, the Sharks continue to build on their success. With a talented roster, a passionate fan base, and a focus on developing the next generation of stars, the San Jose Sharks history is still being written. Fans remain hopeful that future San Jose Sharks games will bring more milestones and another chance to hoist the Stanley Cup.
Sports Fan Products
Unveiling the History of San Jose Shark Team: A Deep Dive
In this video, we explore the history of the San Jose Shark Team with our in-depth exploration. From their humble beginnings to their rise to greatness, we uncover the stories, triumphs, and challenges that have shaped this iconic team. Join us on this journey through time as we delve into the rich tapestry of San Jose Shark Team History.
San Jose Sharks All-Time GOATs: Who Makes the Mount Rushmore?
The video "San Jose Sharks All-Time GOATs: Who Makes the Mount Rushmore?" dives into the debate of which legendary players deserve a spot on the Sharks' Mount Rushmore, spotlighting the franchise’s all-time GOATs and their prime performances. Highlighting Sharks legends such as Patrick Marleau...
Retired Number
99 / Wayne Gretzky
*Blue is this team’s history
