Erik Karlsson Becomes First D-man To Hit 100 Points Since ‘92

On April 10th, 2023, Erik Karlsson scored two goals in a game against the Winnipeg Jets for his 100th point. This point signified Karlsson being the first defenseman to have 100 points in a single season since 1992. Not only has Karlsson hit this milestone for the first time in his career, but he is just the 6th defenseman to ever reach it in NHL history. 

#65 has had a significant 22-23 season with the Sharks. 25 goals and 75 assists through 80 games is outstanding for a defenseman, but that is exactly what Karlsson did. This has been a great season for Erik Karlsson, as his previous career high was 82 points.

Apart from Karlsson being exceptional offensively, he is ranking average on defensive stats among other defensemen in the league. He currently has a total of 87 blocked shots and 79 takeaways. With Karlsson averaging 24.4 TOI, he currently has a -21 plus/minus this season, but with his team not doing too well, it can't all be blamed on him.

Previously, Karlsson averaged 53 points per season, and now he has almost doubled that. Even though the Sharks are not in a playoff position, this will still be a season to remember for EK65.

As mentioned before, Karlsson has been inducted into a list of only six defensemen with this milestone. Brian Leetch was the last to do it back in 1992, but hockey has changed so much since then. For example, Goaltenders are harder to score on today as opposed to in the 90s. Karlsson is the first player to do this in the “New Era’ which is very impressive. 

With Erik Karlsson having his name put onto a list of defensemen like Bobby Orr and Paul Coffey, it brings up cause to wonder if Erik Karlsson is Hall of Fame worthy. What are your thoughts?