Los Angeles. A Swedish defenseman named Eric hit the NHL again last night.
No, not Carlson.
It was Erik Gustafsson who again scored both goals and made the assists as his Washington side sacked the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden.
– So far this is my best season since 2018-19 with Chicago, the 30-year-old from Stockholm told Sportbladet after the 4-0 thrashing.
The Eric who usually makes headlines is Carlson in San Jose — and for good reason. The star of Småland is experiencing a bright new spring in the middle of winter.
But at the same time, after a few years of being a so-called “handyman,” when he would change teams now and then, Gustafson’s name found its place in Washington.
He was one of the few plays approved for the Capitals during a very mediocre start to the season and now, when the whole team is starting to pick up, he’s on a real shoal. He was responsible for both goals and assists, for a complete hit by compatriot Marcus Johansson, in Manhattan last night, and thus has produced no less than nine points – including a hat-trick against Toronto – in his last five games.
“Have a good time”
– Yes, it’s going well, of course it’s a lot of fun, says Eric when we get to him in New York.
– So far this is my best season since 2018-19 with Chicago, but I also got into Washington perfectly. I enjoy myself fantastically, both on and off the ice. Now it’s just an attempt to continue in the same way.
The season he mentioned – 18-19 – Eric finished with 60 points, so opponents need to be careful.
As far as capitals are concerned, they are allowed to do so. Despite ongoing problems with injuries – so far star John Carlson has long-term injuries – they continue to persuade. and win. Last night’s victory was their fifth in a row – and they just overtook Rangers in the table.
“To enter this room and beat such a good team is very powerful even though we are missing many important players,” continues Eric.
– We played a really good game. They had some first, and then Darcy Comber made some crucial saves. Then I think we had most of the things under control in the second and third shorts.