Erik Karlsson Is Erik Karlsson Once Again

Erik Karlsson’s 70 points in 53 games is impressive. But just as impressive are the micro-stats behind that stat.

Karlsson just skated in his seventh All-Star Game, for the first time since 2019. He’s on pace for 109 points, which would make him the first defenseman since Brian Leetch in 1991-92 to top the century scoring mark.

So during the All-Star break, I asked SPORTLOGiQ for a complete list of micro-stats where the San Jose Sharks blueliner is top-10 in his position.

It’s a long list.

These micro-stats are small brushstrokes which explain, or paint, the larger portrait of the two-time Norris Trophy winner’s return to dominance.

Let’s start with…Karlsson’s defense?

Defense

Karlsson is not known for his defense. But the San Jose Sharks star excels in a number of different defensive areas, both with his feet and smarts.

Erik Karlsson defensive stats, through All-Star break (of 199 defensemen, 300+ 5v5 minutes) pic.twitter.com/S3ovV8vMkh

— San Jose Hockey Now GIFs (@sjhockeynowGIFS) February 8, 2023

Karlsson isn’t quite top-10 in these rate stats, but his ranks here are impressive considering they’re out of 199 qualified defensemen, 300-plus 5-on-5 minutes.

Essentially, if there’s a loose puck, chances are that Karlsson is winning the race to it. And he’s an alert defender, you can count on his stick in passing lanes to block opposition passes.

Read The Full San Jose Sharks Article at NBC Sports Bay Area