Karlsson returns to ice in Senators victory April 26, 2013

In a season of ups and downs, it could not have been scripted much better for the Ottawa Senators. Having lost their last two games, the team needed a boost.  It came in the form of defending Norris Trophy winner Erik Karlsson, and he brought the goods, chipping in two assists in over 27 minutes of ice time.

The Senators, who needed a point to qualify for the playoffs, got that and more, winning the game in overtime on a Sergei Gonchar blast. It was set up by Karlsson, who was playing his first game in 2 ½ months, having made a miraculous return from a torn Achilles tendon.

"I would have been happy if I sat in the stands and we would have won this game, as well, I think, and that's the main goal," Karlsson said. "I'm going to have to work on my stuff, and as long as this team keeps winning, I'm going to be happy."

Karlsson’s return could not have been much timelier. With two games left to play in the regular season, the all-star D-man will have a chance to get into game shape, with the playoffs beginning next week. As it stands, the Senators would take on the very same Capitals, whom they have beaten in all three matches this campaign.

The Senator star assessed his performance:

"I felt OK," Karlsson said. "Did battle some issues out there, and didn't feel quite as comfortable as I used to, but overall I think it was a solid game. I still have to work through some mistakes and clean those up."

The coach was a bit more complementary:

"Obviously, our team was a different team with him on the ice, and the things that he can do that others can't do. He's a very special player," Senators coach Paul MacLean said about Karlsson. "He's done, obviously, a ton of work."

Whatever the case may be, Karlsson’s game can only improve by the beginning of the playoffs next week, which surely has Senators fans excited.

After last night's performance, it is pretty clear his teammates are, too!