Penguins Defenseman Steps Up at Right Time
Erik Karlsson has gone to another level when the Pittsburgh Penguins need it most.
The abrupt turnaround of the Pittsburgh Penguins cannot be attributed to one player or moment. However, one of the most needed contributions has come from Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson.
Penguins fans had high expectations for Karlsson's first year with the club. Why shouldn't they? He was coming off a 100-point season, a third Norris Trophy, and already has a spot picked out for his Hall of Fame placard in Toronto. Unfortunately, things haven't been smooth sailing. That is, until recently.
Karlsson has stepped up and is a major factor in the Penguins current nine-game point streak (6-0-3), scoring five points and accounting for the most scoring chances of anybody on the team (115).
The veteran defenseman has played with a sense of urgency that was not as evident through most of the season and has battled hard in both zones to gain and keep possession of the puck. Karlsson leads all Penguins defensemen with 23 shots during this stretch, only trailing Bryan Rust (24) and Drew O'Connor (25) for the team lead.
The Penguins needed their stars to step up to get back into playoff contention, and Karlsson has played his part masterfully.
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