Erik Karlsson Returns to San Jose

Erik Karlsson will face the San Jose Sharks for the first time since being traded in the offseason.

The Pittsburgh Penguins and Erik Karlsson face the San Jose Sharks for the first time since the big trade in the offseason.

Karlsson and the Penguins practiced in San Jose today, and EK65 met with the media.

"I think right from the start, it's been a lot of things to get accustomed to and a lot of new things again," Karlsson said. "I've been through it once before, so that helped a little bit. In general, it's been a really good experience."

Through nine games this season, Karlsson has six points (2 goals, 4 assists).

The reigning Norris Trophy winner talked about what it has been like to play alongside players like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin.

"It's been great. There are a lot of things I know about them now that I wish I did when I played against them," Karlsson said. "The group of guys here and the culture and how they handle things has been really easy to get accustomed to."

EK65 told the media that he will see a couple of former teammates tonight. He joked that the Sharks players would make him pay for the night. 

From living in San Jose to now staying in a hotel with the Penguins, Karlsson described the feeling.

"It's always weird," Karlsson said. "Staying at a hotel and still knowing my way around everywhere and still at the same time kind of forgot what it's like to be on the other side of the wall. It's mixed emotions. It's a little bit surreal at the same time. Hopefully, once the puck drops, you can just focus on the game itself."

The San Jose Sharks will face Karlsson and the Pittsburgh Penguins tomorrow at 7 p.m.

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