Karlsson gets break before joining Sens
Coach plans to slowly work him in
HALIFAX Erik Karlsson will be given a few days to regroup, switching gears from pride of country to pride of NHL team.
The Senators captain, who felt the sting of Sweden’s shocking 3-2 overtime loss to Team Europe in a World Cup of Hockey semifinal on Sunday, will be back for Wednesday’s evening practice at Canadian Tire Centre.
From there, he will gradually be eased into the grind of the Senators training camp schedule.
“We were hoping, for sure, that he would end up with some positives,” said Senators coach Guy Boucher.
“I’m sure there are some positives for him being one of the leaders on that team.”
Karlsson wore an ‘A” for Sweden.
He scored the third-period tying goal, which sent to the game to extra time.
Karlsson was also outstanding in the most entertaining game of the tournament, when Sweden lost 4-3, also in overtime, to the feisty North America squad.
Ultimately, though, Tomas Tatar put the finishing touches on Europe’s surprising victory Sunday.
“They came really close and he did well,” said Boucher.
“You could see he had a big impact late in (Sunday’s) game.”
Boucher talked about the “learning opportunities” for Karlsson, believing that having him in so many crucial situations will serve as a benefit to the Senators.
“I’m sure he’s disappointed not to get the gold, but he has some things to bring back.”
The Senators will be careful in how they manage Karlsson’s time for the remainder of the week.
Following Wednesday’s workout, Karlsson will have Thursday off as the team travels to Montreal for an exhibition game against the Canadiens.
He will also take a break on Friday, before returning to the team on Saturday.
Boucher says there’s “a possibility ” Karlsson could play in Saturday’s matinee against the Canadiens at the Canadian Tire Centre. That decision, however, will depend on how Karlsson feels and/or whether the Senators want a longer look at other players.
Boucher believes it’s the best way to work Karlsson back into the plan.