Erik Karlsson Participates In Senators’ Practice

A mere two months and change after undergoing surgery to repair his achilles tendon, Ottawa Sentors defenseman Erik Karlsson participated in the team practice for the first time this morning.  It was picture day for the team, and Karlsson stuck around, to the applause of his teammates, and participated in drills on a 4th defensive pairing with Mike Lundin.

February 13, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Ottawa Senators defenseman Erik Karlsson (65) skates the puck up ice against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the second period at the CONSOL Energy Center. The Pittsburgh Penguins won 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

While still some work to do, the fact that he is participating in practice while not wearing a non-contact jersey definitely gives hope that he will be able to return at some point, maybe even before the playoffs begin.