Erik Karlsson's unique pre-game ritual: more than just a pasta dish

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Sam Jones
July 29, 2024 (6:38 PM)

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Erik Karlsson, the Penguins' standout defenseman, may have revealed the secret sauce to his success, but it's not quite what you might expect.

Known for his offensive prowess on the ice, Karlsson's pre-game meal could easily vie for one of the most bizarre sports rituals. In a viral revelation, the veteran shares his unconventional pasta mix which includes Alfredo and meat sauces, raw red onion, hot sauce, and an unexpected dollop of ketchup. A strange concoction, indeed!

Now at 34, Karlsson continues to dominate the league, proving that age is but a number in the rink. Two seasons ago, he clinched the Norris Trophy with a staggering 101 points, even amidst a struggling San Jose Sharks squad.

However, this year, his score tally dipped to 56 with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Initially viewed as the key piece to propel the Penguins back into playoff contention, the narrative has swiftly shifted toward potential trades and restructuring. Amid swirling trade rumours and possible moves, including a buzz about returning to the Ottawa Senators, Karlsson remains a linchpin in Pittsburgh's defensive lineup.

With three years left on a hefty contract and an adjusted cap hit due to the trade from the Sharks, Karlsson's future in the NHL seems as eventful as his meal choices. Regardless of the team colours he dons, his legacy is cemented. Boasting three Norris Trophies and an impressive 817 points across 1002 games, Karlsson isn't just a candidate for the Hall of Fame�he's a shoo-in.

Karlsson's career, punctuated by his lack of a Stanley Cup but underscored by his individual achievements and unique pre-game rituals, highlights an athlete who is as fascinating off the ice as he is skilled on it. Whether or not his pasta dish is the true MVP behind his success, Erik Karlsson remains one of the most electrifying defensemen of his era.

Source: Barstool Sports