Vegas Golden Knights First Half Report Cards: Forwards

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LAS VEGAS, NV – JANUARY 07: William Karlsson #71 of the Vegas Golden Knights celebrates with teammates on the bench after he scored a goal against the New York Rangers in the third period of their game at T-Mobile Arena on January 7, 2018, in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Golden Knights won 2-1. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

In a team full of surprises, I don’t think anyone expected this one was coming at all. William Karlsson came over from the Columbus Blue Jackets in the expansion draft. He was labeled as a reliable bottom six forward, and he takes care of the puck. Come to find out he’s much more than just that.

After some line juggling early in the year, Karlsson found some chemistry with Jonathan Marchessault and Reilly Smith. It turns out that line is one of the most dangerous lines in the NHL and it’s all thanks to Head Coach Gerard Gallant for putting that line together. When they’re on the ice, they’re an efficient unit in all phases of the game which is rare to find on any team.

The Marsta, Sweden native leads the team in goals with 22, to go along with 14 assists, 36 points, and a +20 rating in 41 games played. Not even the biggest Golden Knights advocate could’ve predicted this player to put up this type of production. He’s been a machine at even strength and on both special teams units for Vegas.

You know the Columbus Blue Jackets are kicking themselves for leaving Karlsson exposed. He deserves every amount of praise for his first-half performance. He’s done everything right since he moved on a line with Smith and Marchessault.

Grade: A+

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