Report: Sharks’ Erik Karlsson unlikely to return from injury ‘anytime soon’

NHL-Sharks-Karlsson-skates-against-Canucks

San Jose Sharks' Erik Karlsson (65) carries the puck against the Vancouver Canucks. (Josie Lepe/AP)

Injured Sharks defenceman Erik Karlsson doesn’t expect to return to San Jose’s lineup “anytime soon” according to Kevin Kurz of The Athletic.

Karlsson, who is dealing with a groin injury that has kept him out of the lineup the past three games, says he intends to be 100 per cent by the time the playoffs begin in April.

Sharks head coach Pete DeBoer echoed the two-time Norris Trophy winner’s sentiment that he’ll be ready before the post-season gets underway, and that he could get a few games in before the regular season is through.

The 28-year-old has recorded three goals and 42 assists in 52 games played during his debut season with the Sharks, helping San Jose earn a 40-19-8 record and second place in the Pacific Division.

Over the course of his career, Karlsson has amassed 563 points in 679 games.

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