The recent acquisition of Erik Karlsson by Pittsburgh has sent shockwaves throughout the NHL community. As the new multi-titled Grand Poobah of Pittsburgh, Kyle Benjamin Dubas has made his mark by finally securing a player he has reportedly coveted since his tenure with the Maple Leafs. While this move has raised many eyebrows, it is crucial to assess its impact from a fantasy perspective and explore the opportunities it presents for players in Pittsburgh and beyond.
As a former Shark, Erik Karlsson joins Pittsburgh with the potential to amass an impressive number of points. With a more dynamic scoring side in Pennsylvania, Karlsson will benefit from playing alongside stars like Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Jake Guentzel. These prolific playmakers and scoring forwards are likely to enhance Karlsson’s production, particularly on the power play. While he may not replicate his Norris-winning, 101-point campaign from last year, Karlsson is expected to deliver solid numbers and contribute significantly to Pittsburgh’s special teams unit.
Realistically, it is unlikely for Karlsson to achieve a unicorn-like season again. However, he is still expected to be a top defenseman asset in most fantasy leagues. A projected stat line of 80 points with 35 earned on the power play through 2023-24, along with over 200 shots and 25 minutes of ice time per game, showcases Karlsson’s value as a fantasy player.
Karlsson’s arrival in Pittsburgh will undoubtedly impact other players on the team, particularly those who have the opportunity to play alongside him on the top power play unit. Rickard Rakell appears to be the lucky skater who will join Karlsson, Crosby, Malkin, and Guentzel on this formidable unit. However, Reilly Smith, a newcomer to Pittsburgh, could also find his way into this esteemed company. As a Stanley Cup Champion, Smith has the potential to contribute significantly and should be considered in fantasy drafts. Additionally, Bryan Rust may earn a chance on the top power play unit, further enhancing his fantasy value.
Karlsson’s presence will also create opportunities for defensemen on the team. Ryan Graves and Marcus Pettersson have the potential to partner with Karlsson on the top defensive pair, leading to increased production and added value in fantasy leagues that reward blocked shots. Monitoring the camp to see who ends up partnering with Karlsson will provide valuable insights into potential sleepers. However, the biggest loser in this deal is Kris Letang, who drops to the second power play and pairing. Despite this setback, Letang’s focus will likely be on helping the team compete for another Stanley Cup.
While Pittsburgh reaps the benefits of Karlsson’s arrival, the Sharks in San Jose face a period of rebuilding. Mario Ferraro appears poised to anchor the No. 1 power play, but it remains uncertain if he will hold onto that position. Matt Benning could potentially snatch this role if given the opportunity. Until the rebuilding Sharks figure out their power play situation, both Ferraro and Benning should be considered late sleeper picks in deeper fantasy leagues.
Erik Karlsson’s move to Pittsburgh has undoubtedly created excitement and anticipation within the NHL community. From a fantasy perspective, Karlsson’s potential impact on the Penguins and his teammates presents both opportunities and challenges. While his production may not reach the extraordinary heights of his Norris-winning season, Karlsson is expected to be a valuable asset in fantasy leagues. Furthermore, his arrival in Pittsburgh opens doors for other players to thrive, and it will be intriguing to see how the team performs in the upcoming season. As for San Jose, they face a rebuilding phase, and fantasy managers should approach their players with caution until the team’s power play situation becomes clearer.
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