Erik Karlsson Activated from IR, Returns Early for Oilers Game

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson (lower body) was activated off injured reserve and made an earlier-than-expected return for Thursday's game against the Edmonton Oilers, after initially being projected to be out for at least two weeks from Jan. 13. Ryan Graves (undisclosed) was placed on injured reserve in a corresponding move. The 35-year-old veteran blueliner may face a significant workload with Kris Letang (upper body) sidelined. During the game, Connor McDavid received a penalty for slashing Karlsson's stick.