Penguins’ Erik Karlsson shares hilarious 2-word reaction to William Nylander’s return to Maple Leafs lineup

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson gave a short and funny answer about William Nylander’s return to the game on Monday. Pittsburgh is placed second in the Metropolitan Division with a record of 8-3-2. Their game against the Toronto Maple Leafs is going to be their first meeting this season at Scotiabank Arena.

NHL reporter Mark Masters posted on X before Monday’s game. When asked about facing Nylander, Karlsson said,

“That sucks.”

Karlsson and Nylander both play for Sweden internationally and have represented their nation in the 4 Nations Faceoffs, which was held in February.

"He's obviously a very good player," Karlsson further said about Nylander.

Nylander missed three of the last four games with a lower-body injury. He is expected to play on the second line and the first power-play unit. He has three goals, 12 assists, and 14 shots in nine games this season. He is leading the Leafs in assists this season.

Meanwhile, Karlsson has 10 assists and a +7 rating through 13 games. He has not scored a goal yet, but plays nearly 23 minutes each game. His passing and defense have helped the Penguins stay strong.

William Nylander talked to the media about his health, Cowan, and Tavares

William Nylander spoke with reporters before facing the Pittsburgh Penguins. He said he felt ready to return after missing time with a lower-body injury.

“Good, good to go,” Nylander said, adding that the rest helped his recovery and that he felt fine to play again.

Nylander praised Easton Cowan, who scored his first NHL goal in the 5-2 win over the Philadelphia Flyers.

"Yeah, obviously, he's been buzzin, playing really well," Nylander said. "And you know, nice to see him get that first one. Yeah, I think he will complement us. But, I mean, he is a smart player and he has been making great plays out three."

Cowan will also get a chance on the top power-play unit.

"Yeah, like I said, he is a power player," Nylander said. "So, he is going to be making plays, getting open, and doing that stuff."

William Nylander also talked about John Tavares’ recent play. Tavares had two assists against Philadelphia and is on a six-game, nine-point streak.

"Yeah, John's John, He knows, he's always going to be an impactful player every night. So, he is just doing his thing." Nhylander said.

The Maple Leafs’ offense has been solid, and Tavares is leading the Leafs with 16 points. Nylander is just behind him, tied with Matthew Knies, with 15 points.