Karlsson not worried about long-term yet
Mike Zeisberger of NHL.com: San Jose Sharks defenseman Erik Karlsson said he hasn’t thought about signing a long-term contract extension with the Sharks yet. He’s eligible to sign a deal after July 1st.
“Right now I’m worried about today,” he said. “That’s the mindset I’ve had all year. I’m trying to stay as focused as I can in the dressing room. The future is something I can’t control.”
Back when the Sharks traded for him GM Doug Wilson said they envisioned Karlsson being with the team for a long time.
Karlsson hasn’t put up the offensive numbers yet, but coach Pete DeBoer said things are starting to come around the past 15-18 games.
“Hockey-wise and life-wise, it’s been a big adjustment. It’s taken some time and still taking some time but I’ve liked it. I’ve gotten as much enjoyment as I possibly can. There’s nowhere to go but up.”
Kings could be looking to make a deal, but may not like what they see
Chris Nichols of Nichols on Hockey: Elliotte Freidman was on Sportsnet 960 and was asked if the Los Angeles Kings could be looking to make some major changes.
“I think there could be. I think they’re looking,” said Friedman. “That was a tough one last night. You lose on a power play with a couple of minutes left. That’s a killer.
“I think there’s a willingness to do things. I thought they were going to wait for awhile. They made the coaching change, they made the one trade, and I think their plan was to wait a bit longer. I just don’t think they’re liking what they’re seeing.”
Friedman adds that you obviously need two teams to make a deal, but the Kings seem willing to do something.