SAN JOSE — Erik Karlsson hugged an equipment manager as he walked into the Sharks dressing room after the team’s morning skate on Saturday. Then, he joked with the public relations staff about his media obligations as he undressed, smiling from ear-to-ear as he referred to himself as “high maintenance” in a self-deprecating manner.
Karlsson’s exuberance is understandable. He’ll finally return to action after missing nine games with a groin injury when the Sharks take on the Vancouver Canucks at SAP Center on Saturday.
“It’s been a long time,” Karlsson cracked. “But it was handled the proper way.