2. Erik Karlsson
Mar 17, 2015; Raleigh, NC, USA; Ottawa Senators defensemen Erik Karlsson (65) watches the play against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. The Ottawa Senators defeated the Carolina Hurricanes 2-1 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
Stats: 686 GP, 251G, 687P
Height/Weight: 6foot1, 285lbs
Acquired: 2008 NHL Entry Draft (15th Overall)
I’ll be honest, I totally considered putting Erik Karlsson at number one on this list. I mean, he’s the only Senator to win a major NHL trophy (other than the Calder), and he’s done it twice.
He’s already in a group of defenders under 25 to win two Norris’ that only includes Bobby Orr, Denis Potvin and Paul Coffey. He’s proven to be a generational talent and has dominated defenders in scoring every year he plays.
However, the time to put Karlsson as the greatest Senator of all-time isn’t yet. He’s “only” played 397 games, but for a player who is 25, “only” isn’t the word to use. He’s had an incredible work-load as a young player and that includes taking on the Senators’ captaincy at 24. Currently, he’s under contract for 4 more seasons and you’d have to think the Senators would love to keep Karlsson until his NHL days are done.
He’s set to have what could be a hockey hall of fame worthy career and if he could lead Ottawa to a Stanley Cup, then he’ll certainly get the nod.
Karlsson is one of, if not the best defender in the game today. What he’s been able to accomplish as such a young player is grounds to put him at number two on this list and put him very close to asking the question as to whether or not he’s already the best Senator of all-time.