Erik Karlsson is returning just in time for the Pittsburgh Penguins.
The three-time Norris Trophy winner has been out of training camp and preseason action with an undisclosed injury, creating plenty of question marks regarding his season-opener status for Pittsburgh. Karlsson has been participating in individual skating drills, but Thursday marked his return to practice.
Head coach Mike Sullivan said Karlsson was in a non-contact jersey, but the fact that he’s back at practice is great news for the Penguins. Per Pittsburgh Hockey Now, Sullivan noted that he was confident that the defenseman would be active for the opener.
Karlsson has gone as far as to say the same, stating on Golf Digest’s “The Loop” podcast that he plans to play.
“Yeah,” Karlsson said, as posted by B/R Open Ice. “That’s the plan.”
Story continues below advertisement
The defenseman had a good first season for the Pens, playing in all 82 games throughout the 2023-24 campaign. He potted 11 goals and dished out 45 assists, good for 56 points while finishing with a plus/minus of +4.
Pittsburgh will kick off its 2024-25 season on Wednesday, Oct. 9 against the New York Rangers. Puck drop is set for 7:30 p.m. EST and will air on TNT.
More NHL: How Penguins Blue-Line Prospect Impressed Mike Sullivan
Featured image via Philip G. Pavely/Imagn Images