The debate surrounding Erik Karlsson and the Norris Trophy can get kind of obnoxious at times, especially since it’s all ultimately subjective.
There’s no denying that Karlsson is a special defenseman when it comes to scoring, however. Tuesday really put that notion under the spotlight, as the Ottawa Senators’ captain hit the 80-point plateau for the first time in his already-impressive career.
It came on his 16th goal of 2015-16 and the 100th tally of his NHL career.
Congrats to @ErikKarlsson65 who has become the second defenceman in franchise history to reach the 100-goal plateau tonight vs @penguins.
— Sens Communications (@Media_Sens) April 6, 2016
In case you haven’t gathered it already, it’s really, really rare for a blueliner to accomplish such feats.
.@ErikKarlsson65's goal also gives him a career-best 80 points, tying Lidstrom for the most ever points in a season by a Swedish defenceman.
— Sens Communications (@Media_Sens) April 6, 2016
Erik Karlsson just joined the 80 point club. pic.twitter.com/L6meYvBWvj
— Steve Lloyd (@TSNSteveLloyd) April 6, 2016
Impressive stuff, however you feel about certain trophy debates.
Update: The Penguins ended up winning with an impressive comeback, taking a 5-3 decision.