GOTTA SEE IT: Karlsson Sets Labanc Up with ‘Magic’ Pass

Magic Johnson would be proud of this Erik Karlsson pass.

Early in the San Jose Sharks’ tilt against the Detroit Red Wings, Karlsson made a no-look, between-the-legs, behind-the-back pass that Kevin Labanc slammed home.

That Karlsson pass 🤩 #SJSharks pic.twitter.com/AsVP4IkTux

— TEAL TOWN USA – A San Jose Sharks Podcast (@TEALTOWNUSA) November 18, 2022

Let's watch that EK65 pass again 😍 pic.twitter.com/MnXJes0fad

— Sharks on NBCS (@NBCSSharks) November 18, 2022

You don’t see a pass like this result in a score in hockey too often, but of course, Magic Johnson made a living on highlight-reel dishes like this for the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers.

“It’s no surprise at all,” Labanc said about whether or not he expected Karlsson’s pass in that spot. “Don’t need to [call for it]. He’s got eyes in the back of his head.”

Unfortunately for the San Jose Sharks, it was a magical night for Karlsson, but not for the rest of the squad. Karlsson scored a goal and three assists, his second four-point game this month, but the Sharks dropped a wild 7-4 decision to the Detroit Red Wings.

But it’s been some stretch for Karlsson, who has eight points and 14 assists for 22 points in his last 10 games. Karlsson’s 28 points through the San Jose Sharks’ first 19 games this season sets a franchise record for most points through the team’s first 19 games of a season, eclipsing Owen Nolan’s 25 to start 1999-00.

Even in a loss, Labanc couldn’t help but laugh when talking about his red-hot teammate, “He’s really feeling himself.”