Updated

SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) - There's something about the playoffs that seems to bring out the best in Joe Pavelski's game. Especially against the Detroit Red Wings.

While Benn Ferriero's overtime game-winner for San Jose got most of the attention, it was Pavelski who put the Sharks in position for the 2-1 victory in Game 1 on Friday night.

He batted a puck out of mid-air for the game-tying power-play goal in the third period, drew three penalties including the one that led to his goal, and had five shots on goal as he tormented the Red Wings once again.

Pavelski scored two goals in each of the first two games of San Jose's playoff series against Detroit a year ago, getting the game-winner in Game 1 and the tying goal in the second game.