The Pittsburgh Penguins are getting a major boost on the blue line. The team announced that Erik Karlsson has been activated from injured reserve and is set to return to the lineup tonight against the Edmonton Oilers. In a corresponding move, defenseman Ryan Graves has been placed on IR.
Karlsson’s return comes slightly ahead of schedule after missing the last nine days with an undisclosed injury. And make no mistake - getting him back is a big deal.
The 35-year-old has been the Penguins' most productive defenseman this season, notching four goals and 33 points through 44 games. He’s also been logging heavy minutes, leading all Pittsburgh defensemen in average time on ice at 23:46 per game.
Beyond the numbers, Karlsson has been a key piece in Pittsburgh’s push back into the playoff conversation. His offensive instincts and ability to drive play from the back end have been on full display.
He’s just 20 points shy of matching last season’s total, and his 54.3% CorsiFor% at even strength shows he’s tilting the ice in the Penguins’ favor when he’s out there. While his on-ice save percentage (88.6%) isn’t elite for a top-pairing defenseman, it’s a step up from where he was last season - and a sign that his overall impact is trending in the right direction.
The timing of his return is significant. Karlsson’s name has been floated in trade rumors amid Pittsburgh’s ongoing retool, but his strong play this season may be shifting the narrative.
Whether the Penguins decide to keep him as a cornerstone piece or explore a trade, they’re in a much better position now thanks to his resurgence. Either way, his performance is giving the team options - and leverage.
As Karlsson returns, Graves heads the other direction. After filling in during Karlsson’s absence, Graves now lands on injured reserve.
Once healthy, he’s expected to be reassigned to the AHL’s Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, assuming the rest of the NHL blue line remains intact. Graves cleared waivers in late December and hasn’t played enough NHL games since to require waivers again.
It’s been a tough season for Graves, who signed a long-term deal through 2028-29 with a $4.5 million cap hit. He’s been used sparingly, dressing for just 19 games and averaging 15:29 of ice time.
His lone NHL goal this season came in a limited role, and he’s spent more time in the AHL than expected - his first stint there since 2018-19. In 13 games with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, he’s chipped in two goals and nine points.
For the Penguins, the focus now shifts to how Karlsson’s return can help solidify a defense that’s been in flux. If he can stay healthy and keep playing at this level, Pittsburgh’s playoff hopes just got a little more real.