Erik Karlsson Gets Finnish

Defenseman and reigning Norris Trophy winner Erik Karlsson became the latest Ottawa Senators player to sign overseas during the current NHL lockout.   Karlsson inked a deal with Joekerit in the Finish Elite league, not waiting for the doors in the Swedish Elite league to officially open to NHLers.

April 26, 2012; New York, NY, USA; Ottawa Senators defenseman Erik Karlsson (65) handles the puck against the New York Rangers during the first period in game seven of the 2012 Eastern Conference quarterfinals at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-US PRESSWIRE

Karlsson joins Jason Spezza and Sergei Gonchar as members of the Senators already signed to play in Europe during the NHL lockout, now in its 11th day.

Karlsson could suit up as early as Saturday, according to TSN.