Sharks' Erik Karlsson Out Long Term

The San Jose Sharks have provided an update regarding Erik Karlsson, and it isn't a good one. The 31-year-old has had surgery on his left forearm and will be out until at least mid-March.

Karlsson was initially deemed as day-to-day, but clearly, things have taken a big turn for the worse. We reported yesterday that the star defenseman would talk to team doctors about the best course of action with his injury. Now, we have learned that they have suggested surgery, and he of course has gone through with it.

The Sharks are currently in the playoff hunt, so losing arguably their best defenseman is brutal. At this time, they have a 21-19-2 record and are tied with the Dallas Stars and Calgary Flames for the second Wild Card spot. Thus, winning from here is a true necessity if they wish to be a playoff team. Karlsson not being around makes that task much harder.

In 33 games this season, Karlsson has eight goals, 18 assists, and a minus-4 rating. It's been a big bounce-back kind of year for him, as he had just 22 points in 52 games last season. Yet, now his very good season has to be put on pause.

Here's to hoping that Karlsson will be deemed as ready to go once he is re-evaluated in mid-March.