In the Erik Karlsson transaction, it was obviously the Pittsburgh Penguins who made the key acquisition, but the San Jose Sharks also acquired parts for their rebuild, including Mikael Granlund.
The Finn never knew how to adapt to the Pennsylvania team since he started the campaign with the Nashville Predators. The 31-year-old forward, who was expected to help the Pens sprint to the playoffs, has picked up just five points in 21 games.
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“Everything goes so fast. You receive a call. You are on a new team. There are many new faces. The team plays a different style. You have new teammates and you have to learn what they’re doing,” Granlund recalled at a press conference Monday of his acquisition by the Penguins in March.
“At the same time, it’s still hockey. In the middle of the season it was difficult, at least for me, to adapt and gain the coach’s trust. At the same time, it would have been different if I had played very well. But it’s never easy,” said the man, who also switched from the Minnesota Wild to the Predators at the close of 2019.
The midfielder is not lacking in talent, having surpassed 60 points three times in one season. Known for his passing skills, he can help goalscorers like Mike Hoffman and Anthony Duclair get to the touchline in San Jose.
“It’s a new opportunity. I hope to do my best and get an important role. Last season in Pittsburgh, my role was different than what I’m used to. I’m looking forward to showing the coaches that I can be at my best and help the team as much as I can,” said Granlund.
He has 484 points in 750 career games. His contract, which earns him $5 million annually, is for two campaigns.