Winning Play: Karlsson Creating, Knyzhov Learning | SJHN+

On the surface, Erik Karlsson and Nikolai Knyzhov couldn’t be more different.

Karlsson was a first-round pick and a two-time Norris Trophy winner, and he’s the highest-paid defenseman in the world.

The rookie Knyzhov literally came from Siberia – Kemerovo – an undrafted free agent that the San Jose Sharks signed to an ELC with little fanfare in 2019.

They’re now San Jose’s second D-pairing.

It’s an odd couple, for sure, even their playing styles. Karlsson is a finesse blueliner, perhaps the greatest offensive rearguard of this generation. Knyzhov is a strapping defensive defenseman, blessed with a surprising mobility.

But they’re together now, Knyzhov learning and Karlsson creating. Let’s take a look at some of their better work in the last two games versus Vegas.