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Sharks rolling a long, with or without Erik Karlsson |
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The San Jose Sharks are 12-3-1 since a three-year losing streak in mid to late January. They are one point behind the Calgary Flames for first place in the Pacific with a game in hand. San Jose is averaging almost four goals a game over that span and they've been doing it, for the most part, without the services of their two-time Norris trophy winning defenseman, Erik Karlsson.
Now, the word on the street is Karlsson may not be ready to go until the playoffs.
Karlsson is not expected back on the ice "anytime soon" because of a groin injury. He's already missed time with a groin injury, but this latest setback is described as a "different form" of the same injury.
The 28-year-old hasn't played since Feb. 26. San Jose has won three straight without him in the lineup. Despite Karlsson's 45 points (3g, 42a) in 52 games this season, the Sharks are barely skipping a beat without him.
Everybody, including Karlsson, is confident he will be completely health once the playoffs begin. If he's not, does it even matter?
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A few thoughts.....
- The Sharks are rolling. Some of the passing by this team would make a Jedi blush - it's force-like filthy.
- San Jose has tremendous chemistry on and off the ice. They are one of the few teams in the west that have had almost no signs of any cracks in the armor. I attribute that to great veterans and a great coaching staff.
- The Sharks have 11 players with double-digit goals. They already have two 30-goals scorers and several more in the 20's. By seasons and they could very well have a 40-goal scorer, two 30-goal scorers and five others in the 18 to 25 goals range. That's pretty amazing.
- I'm not convinced the Sharks need Erik Karlsson. They've proven they are built to contend without his services. Does EK make them better? Sure. Will be be the difference between winning a Cup and falling short again? I'm not so sure.
Thanks for reading,
Steve
San Jose Sharks Blogger • 
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