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Erik Karlsson closing in on Nicklas Lidstrom’s all-time Olympic scoring record
Photo credit: James Lang-Imagn Images
As the Olympic Games approach the knockout rounds Penguins’ defenseman Erik Karlsson is on the verge of passing an Olympic record held by defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom.
Erik Karlsson and Team Sweden have had a rocky beginning to their Olympic Games with a loss to Finland followed by unconvincing wins.
Even still, the Swedes find themselves in third place in Group B after the preliminary round with a chance to advance still to the medal rounds.
Despite their frustrating experience to this point, Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson has been a bright spot for Sweden and now finds himself on the verge of an Olympic record.
Erik Karlsson on the verge of passing Nicklas Lidstrom for impressive record
According to stats provided by the NHL, Erik Karlsson is just three points away from passing Nicklas Lidstrom and Marek Zidlicky for the most points by an NHL defenseman at the Olympics.
Erik Karlsson of the Penguins had two assists for Team Sweden and continues to be one of the top-producing defensemen in the history of Olympics with NHL player participation.
Tallying three more points for Karlsson would mean finding himself in the Olympic record books adding to his already stacked Hall of Fame resume.
However, with the Swedes in win or go home territory already, Karlsson could fall just short of passing Lidstrom for this impressive record.
At 35-years-old, this will likely be Karlsson’s final opportunity to secure this Olympic record which means he must take advantage of every game he has left.
If he and Sweden can go on a run to the medal rounds then there is a good chance Karlsson will secure himself the Olympic record in his sights.
Karlsson and Sweden await the results of tomorrow’s games before they will find out their opponent in the knockout phase of the tournament.
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