After winning trip, Sharks tripped up at home

No question the Sharks have struggled at home this season, but never more so than when they return from a trip of at least two games.

New Jersey goalie Keith Kinkaid stopped 30 shots for his second career shutout.

“Those are always tough games when you return home after a road trip, no matter how long it is,” Sharks defenseman Paul Martin said.

The Sharks, who lead the league with 25 road victories, dropped to 12-15-3 at home.

Not only that, but their latest loss on home ice wasted an opportunity to gain ground on idle Anaheim and Los Angeles, San Jose’s two Pacific Division rivals ahead of them in the closely contested standings.

Losers of two straight, five of six and eight of 10 coming in, the Devils earned some breathing room when forward Travis Zajac scored an unassisted goal at 1:35 of the third period before adding an empty-netter late.

The puck squirted over the San Jose goalie, and Sharks defenseman Brent Burns reached behind and swatted the puck along the goal line until it struck the near post.

The Sharks had chance after chance during the second half of the period, including putting seven shots on goal during a combined two power plays.

The Devils killed that power play as the Sharks’ top unit accounted for two shots during 1:27 of ice time before changing.