Although the magical run that the Vegas Golden Knights had to the Stanley Cup Final was halted by the Washington Capitals, the team is looking to show that last season was no fluke, much like Vegas forward William Karlsson is.
The 25-year old Karlsson finished the 2017-2018 campaign third in the league with 43 goals and 35 assists, and although he and the Golden Knights couldn’t nail down a long-term contract, he did agree to a one-year, $5.25 million deal so he can return to build on his impressive season.
It’s me betting on myself a little,” Karlsson said, according to NHL.com’s Mike Zeisberger. “It would be great with a long-term (deal) but we couldn’t agree on that. Both sides wanted it long term but it couldn’t work out.
“I believe I can have another productive year, show that last season was no fluke, and earn something long term.”
Karlsson blew up, unexpectedly after two lackluster season with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
“I’m not sure what happened in Columbus but when your confidence is down it affects you,” Karlsson said. “All I wanted is a chance to show what I can do. Vegas let me do that. It let a lot of guys do that.”
Another season like last year’s will lead to a big, long-term deal for Karlsson, and make it hard for the Golden Knights not to give him that kind of commitment.
