The Ottawa Senators, needing just 2 points in their remaining 3 games to lock up a playoff spot are about to get a big boost in that quest, and a possible playoff run as Erik Karlsson is set to return to the lineup tonight for their game against the Washington Capitals.
Karlsson, last year’s Norris trophy winner, returns just 10 weeks after having his achilles tendon sliced in an (accident) by Matt Cooke of the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Karlsson is a major producer for the Sens, putting up 78 points for the team, and leading the NHL in scoring by a defenceman last season. He started the season strong with 6 goals in 14 games, before being injured and lost to the Senators. If fully healthy, Karlsson’s presence helps the Sens in all aspects of the game. He makes them way more dangerous offensively, both on the Powerplay and at Even Strength. Karlsson criticized for his defensive game last season, had vastly improved this year and was playing top matchups, and big penalty kill time before the injury. His return makes the Senators a much scarier first round opponent for any team they might face.
Meanwhile, one of those potential first round opponents, the Pittsburgh Penguins, are seeking maybe an even better impact as captain Sidney Crosby is said to be seeking medical clearance to return from a broken jaw suffered about a month ago. The injury was suffered when teammate Brooks Orpik accidentally hit Crosby in the face with a slap shot.
Crosby was leading the NHL in points by a large margin with 56 in 36 games. Infact it took until last night, and a four point night by Martin St. Louis of the Tampa Bay Lightning, for Crosby to finally lose his scoring lead.
The Penguins already the number 1 seed in the Eastern Conference, become clear Stanley Cup favorites with Crosby back in the lineup. The best player in the NHL joins the best roster (on paper) in the NHL, and seemingly sets up the Penguins for their playoff run. However the Stanley Cup is not won “on paper” but instead on the ice, and we’ll have to see how the next two months unfold.
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