The Pittsburgh Penguins have been a surprise team this season, and a key reason is the play of star defenseman Erik Karlsson.
Karlsson has turned back the clock and is back to being one of the best defensemen in the NHL. Although the Norris Trophy – given to the best defenseman in the NHL – is likely down to Cale Makar, Quinn Hughes, and Zach Werenski are the likely three finalists, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet believes Karlsson deserves some shine and to get onto the ballot.
“It’s the time of year for trophy debate,” Friedman wrote in his weekly 32 Thoughts article on Thursday. “Norris is going to be nuts. You know who’s not getting enough shine? Erik Karlsson. Don’t think he wins it, but he deserves to be on ballots. He’s played some of his best hockey in years.”
Karlsson has nine goals and 43 assists for 52 points in 63 games this season, as he’s helped the Penguins be firmly in the playoff mix. Although he won’t win the Norris Trophy, he will likely receive votes to be in the top-five, as it’s been a stellar year for the Swede.
The 35-year-old won the Norris Trophy three times in his career, in 2012, 2015, and 2023.
Pittsburgh is currently 34-18-16 and holding onto the second spot in the Metro. The Penguins will return to the ice on Saturday at home against the Winnipeg Jets.
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