Sharks’ Matt Nieto expects to play in Stanley Cup Final

Hockey Central analyst Doug MacLean discusses all the headlines, stories and matchups within the Penguins vs. Sharks Stanley Cup Final, with all the stars firing on all cylinders.

Sharks forward Matt Nieto is feeling good about his chances of returning to the San Jose lineup for the Stanley Cup Final against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

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The 23-year-old took part in a full practice on Friday, his first since suffering an upper-body injury in Game 6 of Round 2 against the Nashville Predators.

He missed the entire Western Conference Final, with Melker Karlsson taking his spot on the team’s third line, and Tommy Wingels getting a chance to dress. The Sharks eliminated the St. Louis Blues in six games.

“Everyone wants to play this time of year and to be watching from the sidelines wasn’t fun,” Nieto told The Mercury News. “But the team took care of business. They just played really (good) hockey and it gives me a chance to try and get back in.”

Nieto has one goal and two assists in 11 games this post-season.

The Stanley Cup Final starts Monday night at 8 p.m. ET.

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