Why Erik Karlsson winning Penguins' MVP award is a big deal

Karlsson's first two years with the Penguins were a bit disappointing given the expectations that came with his arrival prior to the start of the 2023-24 season. 

He was coming off a Norris Trophy-winning season (his third in the NHL) and a 100-point performance with the San Jose Sharks. He was supposed to be another difference-maker added into the lineup to give the Penguins another chance to compete for a Stanley Cup with Crosby and Malkin still in the lineup. 

It did not work out as planned.

While Karlsson was still productive offensively, his all-around game was a bit underwhelming while the Penguins missed the playoffs entirely in each of the past two seasons. 

All of that has been different this season. The Penguins are just one win away from clinching a playoff spot, far exceeding all preseason expectations. The play of Karlsson is one of the biggest reasons for that. 

Not only has he returned to the Norris Trophy level form he displayed throughout his career, he has been one of the Penguins' most impactful players all season. He especially stepped up and helped carry the team when both Crosby and Malkin have been sidelined due to either injury or Malkin's five-game suspension. 

He enters Thursday's game against the New Jersey Devils with 14 goals, 50 assists and 64 total points, making him one of the most productive defensemen in the NHL. Since the start of March, he has been one of the highest-scoring players in the NHL regardless of position. 

The Penguins have also outscored their opponents by a 72-50 margin with Karlsson on the ice during 5-on-5 play. 

There is perhaps no player on the roster who has benefitted from the Penguins' coaching change prior to this season more than Karlsson. He looked like a fraction of his former self under former head coach Mike Sullivan. He looks like the Erik Karlsson hockey fans have come to know and expect under first-year head coach Dan Muse.  

Having a defenseman play at this level is a key ingredient for Stanley Cup-contending teams, and the Penguins always envisioned Karlsson being this type of player. It took a couple of years, but they are getting it. Now, he has a team MVP honor to validate it.