Karlsson's Magic: Penguins' Playoff Push

0:00It's April 1st, you're listening to NHL News today, AI Power Coverage of your team. I'm Cory with the story. The Pittsburgh Penguins missed a playoffs for the first time since 2006 last season, sparking a major shake-up. They fired their president and GM right after the year ended, then hired Kyle Dubas from Toronto to run both jobs starting August 3rd, 23. Dubas went all in on keeping stars, Sydney Crosby, Evgini Malkin, and Chris Lattang competitive by landing elite defensemen, Eric Carlson, and a huge. Three team trade. Carlson brought his offensive firepower right away, with it took time to click under Coach Mike Sullivan. He posted 56 points in his first penguin season, and 53 the next, paired with Marcus Patterson. This year, though, pairing him with Parker Weatherspoon, unlocks something special. Their chemistry has Weatherspoon hitting career highs with three goals and 26 points. Fans and analysts are buzzing about Carlson's March tear, where he grabbed 24 points in 17 games, including nine multi-point nights.

1:06That puts him in rare company with legends like Bobby Orr and Kale Makar. Even as Crosby and Malkin dealt with injuries and suspensions, Carlson kept the team punching above its weight. Take their recent road win in Ottawa, Carlson's drapt home. Without Crosby after an early hit, he scored and set up plays in a 4-3 shootout, victory. Back home against Dallas, he nashed a goal and two assists in a 6-3 loss, touching all Pittsburgh goals despite missing stars. As the regular season winds down, Carlson staying hot could snap that three-year playoff skid. Dubas bet big on him, and right now, it's paying off big time for the penguins push.